Walking on the Water

Immediately he made the disciples get into the boat and go before him to the other side, while he dismissed the crowds. And after he had dismissed the crowds, he went up on the mountain by himself to pray. When evening came, he was there alone, but the boat by this time was a long way from the land, beaten by the waves, for the wind was against them. And in the fourth watch of the night he came to them, walking on the sea. But when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were terrified, and said, “It is a ghost!” and they cried out in fear. But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, “Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid.” And Peter answered him, “Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water.” He said, “Come.” So Peter got out of the boat and walked on the water and came to Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid, and beginning to sink he cried out, “Lord, save me.” Jesus immediately reached out his hand and took hold of him, saying to him, “O you of little faith, why did you doubt?” And when they got into the boat, the wind ceased. And those in the boat worshiped him, saying, “Truly you are the Son of God.” And when they had crossed over, they came to land at Gennesaret. And when the men of that place recognized him, they sent around to all that region and brought to him all who were sick and implored him that they might only touch the fringe of his garment. And as many as touched it were made well. Matthew 14:22-36

Walking On Water

We are so often afraid
the night winds stir up
the terrors of the day life
embittered with loss and pain
tangled in the dark dreams
the failure missteps and bitter
words screamed in hurt and anger.

He comes walking on the water
hand outstretched reaching
for you and me calming
the winds and the waves
tenderly holding us as we weep.

We are so often shadowed
our indiscretions our shame
we hide away the broken shards
the debris of our failures
from the light of day.

He comes walking on the water
hand outstretched reaching
for you and me calming
the winds and the waves
tenderly holding us as we pray.

We often kneel in the darkness
sinking deep in despair nothing
left to anchor our dreams
nothing left to cover our need
nothing left to shelter our hearts.

He comes walking on the water
hand outstretched reaching
for you and me calming
the winds and the waves
tenderly holding us as we beg.

Often with the sunrise we find
a glimpse of hope a ray
of possibility a song
on the wind accompanying the leaves
dancing in the wind.

He comes walking on the water
hand outstretched reaching
for you and me calming
the winds and the waves
tenderly holding us as we crawl.

And often we finally let go
and trust with tender steps
hopeful and tenuous and lurching
we find a rhythm forgiveness
and undeserved abundance
with each new day.

He comes walking on the water
hand outstretched reaching
for you and me calming
the winds and the waves
tenderly holding us as we dance.