***
Some of the most common fears include the fear of heights; the fear of flying; and the fear of public speaking.
Today we could add the fear of COVID; the fear of returning to school or work; and, of course, the fear of death.
All of these fears have one thing in common: they push us beyond our comfort zones.
Human beings like being in control. We enjoy doing what’s familiar, yet we know we’re capable of more.
Sometimes we just need an extra push.
***
Consider what happens to Saint Peter in today’s Gospel.
Jesus invites him to walk on water.
Like us, Peter’s spent his whole life walking on land. Perhaps he never dreamt of doing anything more. The land is solid; sturdy; a place of comfort and familiarity.
But here Jesus is, stretching out his hand to Peter, saying: “Come.”
Walk on water.
***
How often does Jesus invite us to do the same?
***
Consider an addict stepping out of the boat, walking towards sobriety for the very first time.
Or the thousands of teachers who’ve stepped out of their classrooms, moving their careers online.
Or first-time parents stepping out of the hospital and into their cars, driving their newborn child home.
Or maybe you’re like me, an imperfect believer, trying to step out of the boat of comfort into a deeper life of faith.
***
Whatever it may be, the Lord invites us to embrace those words of Saint Paul, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
Even walking on water starts with a single step.
