Shortly before dawn Jesus went out to them, walking on the lake. When the disciples saw him walking on the lake, they were terrified. “It’s a ghost,” they said, and cried out in fear. But Jesus immediately said to them: “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.” 

~Matthew 14:25-27 NIV

 “I am here!” These words were a healing balm to the disciples during their anguish. They feared for their very lives as they watched the waves toss ferociously to and fro.

The struggling disciples held on with all their strength as the sea churned and the waves tossed their boat around. Fear and astonishment gripped them. Looking up, they saw someone walking toward them on the water. At first, they thought it was a ghost, but Jesus called to them saying, “Take courage. I am here!”  How relieved they must have felt to hear the familiar voice.

Peter said, “Lord, if it’s You, tell me to come to You on the water.” Jesus replied, “Come.” Peter stepped out of the boat, but he did not keep his eyes on Jesus. Instead, he looked at the raging wind and sea and began to sink. He cried, “Lord, save me.” Immediately, Jesus reached for him, saved him, and asked him why he doubted. As they got into the boat, the wind died down, and all on the boat worshiped Jesus saying, “Truly You are the Son of God.”

What wonderful assurance we have that Jesus is with us in the middle of life’s inevitable storms. He reminds us to take courage because He is there. He reaches out to us during family illnesses, unexpected life changes, rising cost of living, or relationship problems. Jesus is present. Our Lord provides peace and strength, calming the raging water and our trembling hearts with His presence.

Whether Christ steps into the situation and quiets the storm or allows us to come to Him across the churning waves, our hearts can be at peace because He is there.

Bride of Christ, take a moment to remember times when you cried out to Jesus.

Think of an “I am here” moment, then share it to encourage others.

Lord Jesus, thank You for the freedom I have to call out to You and for the assurance that You will never leave or forsake me. Amen.

 

Genre: Biblical Non-fiction

Copyright 2023: I Am Here: Glenda Shouse: All Rights Reserved