2026 Pentecost Devotions II
Saturday, August 8
Matthew 14:22-33
22 [Jesus] made the disciples get into a boat and go on ahead to the other side [of the Sea of Galilee,] while he dismissed the crowds.23 And after he had dismissed the crowds, he went up the mountain by himself to pray. When evening came, he was there alone, 24 but by this time the boat, battered by the waves, was far from the land, for the wind was against them. 25 And early in the morning he came walking toward them on the sea. 26 But when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were terrified, saying, “It is a ghost!” And they cried out in fear. 27 But immediately Jesus spoke to them and said, “Take heart, it is I; do not be afraid.”
28 Peter answered him, “Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water.” 29 He said, “Come.” So Peter got out of the boat, started walking on the water, and came toward Jesus. 30 But when he noticed the strong wind, he became frightened, and, beginning to sink, he cried out, “Lord, save me!” 31 Jesus immediately reached out his hand and caught him, saying to him, “You of little faith, why did you doubt?” 32 When they got into the boat, the wind ceased. 33 And those in the boat worshiped him, saying, “Truly you are the Son of God.”
“… “Lord, save me!” …”
How often have you been in a bind, caught off guard, and found yourself confused and afraid? To whom did you cry out? Who was it that came to save you?
Peter finds himself out on the water, walking toward Jesus. Presumably, it was his faith in the Lord that caused him to make the request in the first place. After all, he’d seen Jesus change water into wine, cure the sick, raise the dead, feed the thousands, and walk on water. Nothing seemed impossible for Jesus. So why not ask for a personal miracle.
That’s when his faith failed him. He’s now out on the water, the wave lapping at his feet, the wind blowing through his hair, and he finds that fear has overtaken his trust. Yes, Jesus has done the miraculous for others. But for Peter? Frightened and confused, he begins to sink. That’s when he cries out for help, for someone to save him.
We are all people of faith. Presumably, like Peter, we have heard and believed that Jesus changed water into wine, cured the sick, raised the dead, fed the thousands, and, yes, even walked on water. But how far does that faith carry us when we’re frightened and confused. Will it save us, or must we, like Peter, cry out to the Lord, “Save me”?
Prayer: Gracious Lord, you have shown us Your love and mercy. When I am frightened and confused, remind that it is You that can save me. In You alone is my hope and salvation. Amen.