Read: John 17:6-21
My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one. (v. 15 NIV)
Our story yesterday from Matthew 14 is a picture of where we live much of the time. We row across a stormy sea, battered by the elements, struggling to make it to the far shore. And Jesus is nowhere to be seen.
The passage reminds us that Jesus was up on the mountain, praying. Hebrews 7:25 says that Jesus always intercedes for us, and the great prayer of John 17 gives us an example. He does not pray that God will immediately end the storm but that God will protect us in the storm so we can continue our mission of faith.
When he came on the waves, in the middle of the storm, his disciples didn’t recognize him. They were even more terrified by this apparition in the storm. Then he said those words we need to hear too, “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid” (Matt. 14:27).
Peter speaks for us, “Lord, if it’s you . . .” He has his doubts—“if.” But he also has his faith—“tell me to come to you on the water.” Jesus said, “Come” (vv. 28-29). Everyone knows that water will not support a person, but Peter trusted Jesus more than the laws of nature. His trust was greater than his fear of the storm. By faith in Jesus, he did what only God can do. He walked on water. That is great faith, faith beyond doubt.
As you pray, thank Jesus for praying for you.
About the Author
Rev. Stan Mast is a retired pastor, who served four churches in the West and Midwest regions of the United States. He finished his career with three years of teaching at Calvin Seminary. He is happily married to Sharon, and they have two sons and four grandchildren.
- Stan Masthttps://www.woh.org/author/stan-mast/
- Stan Masthttps://www.woh.org/author/stan-mast/