OCTOBER 28 – Reading 301

by Yasmin Rosado | October 28

“STEPPING OUT OF THE BOAT”
(Matthew 14:13-36; Mark 6:31-56; Luke 9:10-17; John 6:1-71)

“And Peter answered him, ‘Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water.’ He said, ‘Come.’ So Peter got out of the boat and walked on the water and came to Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid, and beginning to sink he cried out, ‘Lord, save me.’” – Matthew 14:28–30 (ESV)

I remember when the boys were younger and we’d take them to the pool. They would take turns standing at the edge, nervous, looking down at the water. I’m sure the pool looked scary and deep in their eyes but Albert would be in the water, smiling, holding out his arms. He wouldn’t push or pressure them, he’d simply say, “Jump.” And they would. Not because the water felt safe but because they trusted their dad. They knew he’d catch them. Those moments will always stay with me. It wasn’t about them being brave, it was about knowing who was waiting for them.

Peter’s story feels the same. The wind was strong. The waves were moving. But Jesus said, “Come,” and Peter stepped out of the boat. He didn’t wait for things to settle, he simply walked toward the One he trusted. And for a moment, he walked on water! His faith carried him farther than reason ever could. It wasn’t until his focus shifted and looking at waves and wind that he began to sink. Realizing what was happening, he cried out, “Lord, save me.” I’m always comforted in knowing that Jesus didn’t wait or hesitate. Instead, He reached out right immediately. That’s who Jesus is.  He calls us to trust Him and He’s always ready to catch us when we fall.

Sometimes staying in the boat feels easier. It’s dry, familiar and safe. But Jesus doesn’t call us to stay where it’s comfortable, He calls us to come closer to Him. That might mean stepping into something unknown, something that stretches our faith. The wind might blow, and we might feel unsure, but His voice is steady. If you’re standing at the edge today, wondering if you should step out, remember it’s not about the water. It’s about the One who’s already in it, reaching for you.

Simple Truth:
Jesus doesn’t wait for the storm to stop before He calls us, He meets us in it and asks us to trust Him.

Reflections:

• What does your “boat” look like right now? Comfort, control, fear, or something else?

• Where might Jesus be asking you to step out in faith, even if it feels risky?

• Have you ever cried out, “Lord, save me”? What happened next?

Applications:

• Take one small step this week toward something Jesus is calling you to do even if it feels uncertain.

• When fear rises, speak the name of Jesus out loud. Let it be your anchor.

• Remind someone else today that Jesus is already in the water, waiting to catch them.

Closing Prayer:
Lord, thank You for calling me to come, even when the wind is strong. Help me to trust Your voice more than my fears. When I feel unsure or start to sink, remind me that You are near and Your hand is already reaching for mine. Give me courage to step out, knowing You are faithful.  In Jesus name, Amen.