Step Out

Serving – January 2024 – Grace & Truth Magazine

Step Out

And Peter … walked upon the waters to go to Jesus. —Matthew 14:29 JND

A little girl, on ice skates for the first time, quickly determined one thing: not to fall down. And, she didn’t! Clinging fearfully to the railings, she inched her way around the rink for over an hour without a spill. But she didn’t learn the exhilarating joy of skimming along the ice – the vulnerable joy of taking a risk.

Lots of Christians hobble through life like that. Their fearful determination to play it safe secures them from some lumps and bruises. No one ever catches them flat on their back or rubbing a swollen shoulder. They seem immune to pain. Sadly, they also seem immune to the excitement of the Christian life.

That’s what I love about Peter. He loved his Lord wholeheartedly and followed Him with zest. He was no plaster saint in some squeaky-clean cathedral, standing lifeless on a secure pedestal. He was the type who would step out unto a tempestuous sea at the word of His Master.

“Step out on the water?
Not me, Lord, it’s risky.
I might get my feet wet
Or even sink.
What will people think?

“I’m walking on water,
Hey, this is just great, Lord,
The water’s beneath me
And I’m free!”
(Is this really me?)

“I’m sinking, Lord, save me!”
(Oh, why did I bother?) …
“Then Your hand in the dark
Makes me stable.”
The Lord is able!

By Grant Steidl