August 12, 2023

Dear Road Church Friends,

This week’s Gospel reading, and Sunday’s sermon, is about the remarkable story of Peter’s failed attempt to walk on water. In their storm tossed boat the disciples saw Jesus approaching, walking on the waves. They were frightened at the sight of him, but Peter, whom Jesus surnamed “Rock,” said, “If it’s you Lord, let me come to you.” Jesus said, “Come.” Peter got out of the boat and promptly sank like a rock. Jesus lifted him out of the water and into the boat. The storm was calmed. The disciples were awestruck. I would love to have been in the boat with them listening to their conversation about what had just happened, and especially Peter’s explanation of why he thought could walk on water. More about this on Sunday.

SCRIPTURE:  Matthew 14:22-33    SERMON:  Walking on Water

After feeding the 5000, Jesus sent the people home. He also insisted that his disciples sail the boat to the other side of the lake so he could be alone to spend the night in prayer. Meanwhile, on their way, his disciples got into trouble because a strong wind was blowing, and they were fighting heavy waves. About three o’clock in the morning Jesus came toward them, walking on the water. The disciples thought they were seeing a ghost and were terrified. But Jesus assured them, saying, “Don’t be afraid. Be brave. I am here!” Then Peter called to him, “Lord, if it’s really you, tell me to come to you, walking on the water.” “Yes, come,” Jesus said. So Peter went over the side of the boat and walked on the water toward Jesus. But when he saw the storm tossed waves he became frightened and began to sink. “Save me, Lord!” he shouted. Jesus immediately took hold of him and said, “You doubted me because you have so little faith,” Jesus said. When they climbed back into the boat, the wind stopped. Then his disciples worshiped him, saying, “You really are the Son of God!”  

FAITH

God knows, not I, the reason why his winds of storm drive through my door,

I am content to live or die just knowing this, nor knowing more.

My Father’s hand appointing me my days and ways, so I am free.

by Margaret E. Sangster

 FAITH

Nothing before, nothing behind,

The steps of faith

Fall on the seeming void, and find

The rock beneath.

by John Greenleaf Whittier

Blessings to you all,

Pastor Norm

This worship service on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/live/hbeMBvxHiKk?feature=share