Matthew14:25-32

Thoughts: A quick boat ride away from our lodge, there's a hidden cove with a.magnificent waterfall. Hardly anyone knows about it, so when I go, it feels like it's all mine-like God made a waterpark just for me. My friend Don and I made a trip to the cove years ago. We waded over to the waterfall and he stepped through the fall and stood next tot he rocks while I stayed on the outside. Don was yelling my name. "Bob! Come through! You'll make it! I'm just one the other side! Come on, Bob!" I could barely hear him as the water crashed between us. But his voice was an invitation that demanded a response. It wasn't mere agreement he was looking for; it was actually me taking a step forward. 
            Despite my fear, I shuffled forward as the freezing water forced down on me. It felt like a long way, but it really wasn't. After a few steps, I joined Don on the other side. It was the best version of a baptism you can imagine! Looking out toward the cove from behind the waterfall, I understood a little better about the time Jesus walked on water and invited Peter to join Him. Jesus wasn't looking for an agreement or affirmation that this would be a great idea for someone else to do. Jesus wanted Peter to take a step.
             Sometimes God asks us to step out (or through). We don't know what we'll see until we go through the deluge. It's scary to step into the unknown, but it's also where we find Jesus; and wherever we find Jesus, we find life. Fear calls out our doubts; God calls out our names. When you hear Jesus calling you name, there's only one way to respond. Take a step. 
Discussion:  What's your next step? What's been holding you back? 
Activity: Take one step, however big or small, towards Jesus this week. 

Devotion from Live in Grace, Walk in Love by Bob Goff.