The Serenity PrayerSample

Peace in the midst of storms

“… accepting hardships as the pathway to peace …”

The episode in Matthew 14:22-32 reveals one of the most well-known passages of the Gospels: Jesus walking on water amidst the storm. After dismissing the crowd, Jesus sends the disciples in a boat and goes up the mountain to pray. In the early morning, He approaches them, walking on the sea. Seeing Jesus, the disciples are terrified, thinking it is a ghost, but He reassures them, saying, “Take courage! It is I. Do not be afraid!”

Peter, with courage, asks to come to Jesus on the water, and Jesus invites him to come. Peter walks on the water, but when he notices the strong wind, he becomes frightened and begins to sink, crying out, “Lord, save me!” Jesus immediately reaches out His hand and rescues him, questioning Peter's lack of faith. When they climb into the boat, the wind dies down.

This account teaches us three important lessons: the storm, the disciples, and Jesus. The storm represents the unexpected difficulties of life, which can arise without warning, like illness, family crises, or financial troubles. They come suddenly and can make us feel powerless. The disciples, even while obeying Jesus, face a storm, showing that being in the center of God's will does not exempt us from adversity. Often, we feel alone in our struggles, but as Jesus did, He prays and intercedes for us.

The presence of Jesus in the storm teaches us that, though we may feel alone, He is always present, interceding, and ready to rescue us when we call out to Him. Even when, like Peter, we take our eyes off Jesus and focus on the difficulties, He is there to save us. The storm may be frightening, but faith in Jesus sustains us.

Prayer: Lord, in moments of fear and storm, help me keep my eyes on You. Give me courage and faith to trust that You are always there, reaching out Your hand to save me. Amen.