So, in today's Gospel, when Christ (walking on the water) approaches the terrified disciples who are being tossed about in the boat, Peter decides he wants to leave the boat and stand with Jesus. Just one problem, though: Between Peter and Jesus is a raging sea! Peter goes anyway! But it is critical to see why Peter thinks HE would be able to do the impossible! "Lord, if it is you, COMMAND me to come to you on the water."

Earlier in Matthew's Gospel (8:26), Peter and the disciples find themselves in a similar predicament: The boat they are in is caught up in a violent storm. In this case, Jesus commands the wind to be still and it calms down. Sometimes, the biggest storms in our lives are the ones raging within us! Inner fear, not the sea, was the greatest obstacle keeping Peter from the Lord. What keeps you from moving closer to Jesus? What storm rages in your life that you need to ask God to speak to? Take Peter's lead: "Command ME," Peter said, "just like you commanded the storm!" We know that Peter got distracted for a moment and needed to be rescued by Jesus, but he was still a lot further along than those who were too afraid to get out of the boat! "Speak to MY heart, Lord! And calm the raging storm that keeps me from meeting you on the water! Amen.