Loading more...
God Is Here
Once, there was a little fish swimming in the ocean. He swam up to an older, Read More
Doug Paysour | Read Matthew 14:22-33
Peter makes a strange request to verify Jesus’ presence. Jesus has come to them walking on water, and Peter asks, “If it is you, command me to come to you on the water.” When Jesus tells him to come, he does and, at first, he does okay. Then he recognizes...
Lord, our God, give us faith to attempt great things for you and for your kingdom. Amen.
The strange dynamics in the history of Abraham’s family continue in Genesis. We meet Joseph who is sold into slavery by his jealous brothers. God will ultimately use this for good, as we read in Psalm 105, but in Joseph’s time, there clearly is significant dysfunction. In the Gospel reading, Peter learns a valuable lesson about trust. He initially shows great faith, but he falters when he allows himself to be distracted by the waves. Paul emphasizes in Romans that every person is welcome to call on the name of the Lord and be saved, but it falls to us to offer them the good news. How can they believe if they never hear?
Read Genesis 37:1-4, 12-28. In the face of cruelty, how do you continue to believe in God’s dream of unity for us all?
Read Psalm 105:1-6, 16-22, 45b. How has God used a difficult situation in your life to bring a surprisingly positive outcome? How has that enhanced your faith?
Read Romans 10:5-15. How does your faith compel you to proclaim God’s love for all—no exceptions? What does this look like for you?
Read Matthew 14:22-33. When have you struggled to trust Jesus through life’s trials? How has Jesus revealed his presence and companionship anyway?
Respond by posting a prayer.
