What if I had been there?

Sometimes I like to read a story from the Bible, like this one in Matthew, and then close my eyes and imagine that I'm one of the people in the story. I try to imagine what it felt like, or looked like, and what would I have thought or done if it was me. It seems to open up fresh understanding and perspective.

In this case I am Andrew, Peter's brother. I and the other disciples have just left Jesus on the shore as we set out to sail across the Sea of Galilee to meet him on the other side. Now we find ourselves in a dangerous situation. it's after dark and a terrible storm has overtaken us, we are in fear for our lives as the winds and waves toss us around like we are nothing. I am angry at myself for having not paid more attention to the weather before we left the shore and now I'm worried about the boat taking on water. the rain is hitting my face, I'm a little disoriented but totally focused on getting to shore.

Suddenly I hear a shout! I glance up to see Peter, leaning too far over the side, pointing off into the darkness and I look to see what he's pointing at. What the heck is that!? Then there is the sudden rush of fear, It looks like a person walking on top of the water, but that can't be... is it a ghost? The hair is standing up on the back of my neck, it's coming this way... then I realize... it's a man! Wait! it's... it looks like Jesus. What is he doing out there? I'm having a hard time getting my mind around what my eyes are seeing. Jesus is walking on the water? It seems like he is going to walk right by us, but then he turns our way. He cups his hands around his mouth and yells through the storm; "Don't be afraid, it's just me."

But I am still afraid, this can't be real! I hear Peter shouting but can't make out what he is saying so I turn to look at him. Shock! He's got one leg over the side of the boat like he's getting out. "NO!" "Peter, STOP?" Then, He's is out of the boat before I can even begin to do anything. I jump up and start moving in his direction, looking for a paddle, or a rope, something! I dive into the side of the boat, my arms hanging over the side, desperation and fear for my brother make me forget everything else. Then my mouth is hanging open, the storm and the waves are forgotten. Peter is walking on the water too! Going out towards Jesus.

Created about 2 years ago