The New Year has just begun and already exciting things are happening! For those of you who have already joined me on this adventure of Living Full Out, have you been connecting with Jesus more frequently and in more meaningful ways? Have you received a word or theme from Him for your year? I have been praying for you!! Hopefully as this new intimacy grows you will experience His joy and peace in ways you hadn’t previously imagined! If on the other hand, your quiet time still feels awkward and forced, and you’re not even sure that you’re hearing from Him, don’t give up! Still immersed in a muddy, broken natural world, it can be really difficult to begin seeing in the spiritual realm. There’s a reason we need to PRACTICE meeting with Him on a daily basis.
Today’s encouragement comes from a familiar story (and favorite of mine!) in which Jesus invites Peter to walk out to Him on the water. (Matt. 14:22-32) There’s a storm brewing and the Disciples have been sent out into the lake on their boat while Jesus stays behind to pray in quiet. He’s found His place for meeting with Abba. Later that evening, Jesus walks across the water towards the boat and the Disciples are terrified that they are seeing a ghost. Jesus assures them it is He, and so Peter– ever the bold adventurer– says, “if it’s really you, tell me to come and meet you on the water”. Well, the Lord tells him to come on out and immediately Peter climbs out of the boat and starts walking on the water! I’ve heard many wonderful sermons on this story– messages of faith, love, trust, and even battling life’s storms, but I have to say for me it is also one that brings such awe and joy. Can’t you see Jesus laughing with delight as He anticipates Peter’s response to this wild invitation?
I’m sure you remember how it goes… As long as Peter is looking at the Lord’s face he too is walking on top of the water towards his Friend. Then, the second Peter takes his eyes off Jesus– noticing the storm around him– he begins to sink and he is overwhelmed with fear. Friends, don’t lose your focus as you commit to Living Full Out with God– Keep your eyes off the water!
Are you trudging along, mentally working to put one foot in front of the other, just trying to get through a busy day (week, month)? Get your eyes off the water!
Are your emotions taking the lead, leaving you feeling disappointed, neglected, ashamed, or angry? Look up!
Are you physically tired, sick, or in pain? Stop looking at the water!
Are you celebrating a win and focused on your achievement? Watch out! This too becomes a trap (water) that will pull you under the waves before you’ve finished your victory dance!
The point here isn’t about living a life that’s so Alive and On Fire we’ll be literally walking on water. (although I have to admit I have prayed that one day in the natural before He takes me home He’ll invite me to do just that!
