The sermon for this Sunday is based on the Gospel reading from Matthew 14:22-34 concerning Christ’s Divine attributes. This lesson tells the story of the miracle of Jesus walking on the water, for it shows Jesus’ divine powers as Lord over creation.
As we know from the story, Jesus came to rescue the disciples from the raging winds and waves which in the Scriptures symbolize chaos, sin, and death. The little band of disciples, representing the Church, were all nestled in the boat, being tossed about in a terrible storm in the middle of the night. When all hope seemed lost, Jesus revealed Himself as Lord and spoke to them with the majestic, “It is I” which means, “I am here to save you”. If you remember from the Old Testament, God had in a similar way spoken to Moses from the Burning Bush revealing to Him the Divine Name, “I Am Who I Am”, as an assurance of Israel’s deliverance from Egypt.
It is ironic that the Apostle Peter, emboldened by the Divine presence, tried to walk on the water, but taking his eyes off Jesus to look upon the menacing elements began to sink. In this story Peter represents the Christian who in times of crisis and distress, panics and acts as if there is no hope. We recall the words of Peter, “Save me, Lord”. Then Jesus stretches forth His saving hand and delivers Peter from the waters of death.
So it is with Us, for there are times in a believer’s life, which may be full of woes and perils, that one can find support only in unconditional faith in the Lord. In times of intense panic or crises, a Christian believer must keep his or her eyes on Christ rather then the numerous “waves” that we may have to navigate in our earthly lives.
Many of us have experienced Christ’s saving hand at some point in our lives, when we are so despondent, for our loving Lord reaches out and saves us, His faithful and loving children with His unconditional love.
May God bless all of you with the assurance of Christ’s love!
