Walking on Water

 

Scripture: John 6:16-21 (NIV)

When evening came, his disciples went down to the lake, where they got into a boat and set off across the lake for Capernaum. By now it was dark, and Jesus had not yet joined them. A strong wind was blowing and the waters grew rough. When they had rowed about three or four miles, they saw Jesus approaching the boat, walking on the water; and they were frightened. Their fear was not just because they saw a figure walking on water, but because they were in the midst of a storm, and the sight of Jesus walking on water seemed like a ghostly apparition. But he said to them, “It is I; don’t be afraid.” Then they were willing to take him into the boat, and immediately, the boat reached the shore where they were heading.

Devotion:

In this passage, Jesus demonstrates His divine authority over nature by walking on water during a storm. This miraculous act profoundly reminds us of God's infinite power, echoing the mighty works described in the Old Testament.

In Genesis 1, we witness the awe-inspiring creation of the world, where God speaks the waters into existence. 'And God said, 'Let the water under the sky be gathered to one place, and let dry ground appear.' And it was so' (Genesis 1:9). The very act of commanding the waters showcases God's supreme control over creation. His word alone is powerful enough to shape the cosmos, a fact that should fill us with humble reverence.

Similarly, in Exodus, God's power is displayed as He parts the Red Sea to deliver the Israelites from slavery. 'Then Moses stretched out his hand over the sea, and all that night the Lord drove the sea back with a strong east wind and turned it into dry land' (Exodus 14:21). This miraculous event not only highlights God's dominion over the natural world but also His deep care and provision for His people, a love that should make us feel secure and cherished.

In John 6:16-21, these themes converge. Jesus, the Son of God, walks on the very waters He created, demonstrating His authority and reassuring His disciples with His presence. Just as God brought order from chaos in Genesis and provided a path to safety in Exodus, Jesus is here to calm the fears of His followers and guide them to their destination, a fact that should fill us with reassurance and hope.

This passage invites us to reflect on God’s unwavering power and faithfulness. No matter the storms we face, we can trust that the Creator of the universe and the Redeemer of Israel is with us, saying, "It is I; don’t be afraid." Let us take comfort in this truth and welcome Jesus into our lives, knowing that we will reach the shore safely with Him. Let us pray:

Prayer:

            Lord, we worship you today. You are truly the God alone, and no one is like you. You created the waters, you split the Red Sea for your people to cross over, and delivered them from the army of the Egyptians. It is almost no miracle at all that you could walk on the waters of the Galilean lake. Help us, Lord, to give you all the glory, for your mighty power works wonders even in our own lives. Jesus made a way through the cross and resurrection to be part of your work for the world's salvation. Please help us to be faithful to you. Amen.