Can we increase our Faith, so that we don't “sink” into the sea like Peter in today’s gospel (Matthew 14:22-33)? Perhaps we have our eyes on the wrong person in this story. Our eyes need to be on Jesus, not on Peter. After all, it was when Peter took his eyes off Jesus and became concerned with his environment, that he began to sink.
Last week during Sunday's Mass, we learned in the preceding gospel story how Jesus had miraculously fed 5,000 men – and perhaps several thousand more women and children – all from five loaves of bread and two fish; and everyone was content and satisfied. That in itself spoke volumes about “who” Jesus really was and is.
Now, only a few hours after that great miracle, the disciples – sent ahead by Jesus to cross the Sea – are caught on the Sea by an unexpected great storm.. It is perhaps 5:00 a.m., just before dawn, and the wind-driven waves are tossing the boat around like a cork. Then they spot Jesus walking towards them on top of the water. Interestingly, rather than being delighted, it is this very sight that terrifies them, not the chaos of the waves. They doubt. They are thinking “ghost,” and they cry out in fear. Jesus immediately tells them, “Do not fear.” Peter then responds with doubt, “IF it is you, command me to come to you on the water.” Jesus invites him, Peter tries, Peter loses his Jesus-focus, and Peter sinks. After his cry for help, Jesus saves him, and calms the chaos.
Peter’s story is the same for every Christian. We sometimes forget Who the main character in our life story is: Jesus, the Savior of the world. If we change our focus, and permit the chaos and evil around us to distract and influence us, then we will sink into the very chaos that we fear! On the other hand, if we keep our focus on the Source of our safety, our salvation, the One to Whom we call out to save us, then the winds die down, and we are once again content in the Presence of the Lord. This is the way we increase or sustain our faith: by never doubting that the Presence of the Lord is with us every single moment of our lives!
When we cry out “Lord,” it expresses our recognition of the divine mystery of Jesus. It also shows our respect and trust in the One we approach for help and healing.
