Life has a way of bringing storms we never expect. Sometimes those storms look like stress, uncertainty, grief, health concerns, family struggles, or simply feeling overwhelmed by everything happening around us. In moments like those, courage does not always come easily.
This Sunday, our Scripture reading is Matthew 14:22–33, the story of Jesus walking on the water toward the disciples during the storm. The disciples are out on the sea, battling strong winds in the middle of the night, when Jesus comes to them, walking across the water. Naturally, they are terrified at first. But Jesus speaks words that still matter deeply for us today: “Take courage; it is I. Do not be afraid.”
Those words are at the heart of this week’s message, “Because of Jesus I Am Courageous.” Courageous faith is not about pretending we never feel afraid. It is about trusting Jesus even when life feels uncertain. It is about taking the next faithful step, knowing Christ is with us in the middle of the storm.
I have always appreciated Peter in this story because he responds so honestly and so boldly. He asks Jesus to call him out onto the water, and for a moment, Peter actually walks toward Jesus above the waves. But then he notices the wind, becomes afraid, and starts to sink. If we are honest, most of us know exactly what that feels like. We begin with confidence and faith, but somewhere along the way, fear and doubt start to creep in.
What I love most about this passage is that Jesus neither shames Peter nor leaves him struggling in the water. Jesus immediately reaches out his hand and pulls him up. That is good news for all of us. Even when our faith feels shaky, Jesus remains faithful.
As Christians, we are called to live with courageous faithfulness every day. Sometimes courage means making a big decision or facing a difficult challenge. More often, it shows up in ordinary moments: continuing to pray when life is hard, reaching out to someone who is hurting, standing up for what is right, offering forgiveness, or simply refusing to give up hope.
The storms of life are real, but they do not have the final word. Jesus still comes toward us in the middle of the wind and waves, reminding us not to be afraid.
I hope you will join us this Sunday as we worship together and reflect on what it means to keep our eyes on Christ. No matter what storms we may be facing, we can live with courage because Jesus is with us.
Peace,
Pastor Kevin