August 13, 2023
Scripture Reading: Matthew 14:22-33
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, started walking on the water, and came towards Jesus. But when he noticed the strong wind, he became frightened, and beginning to sink, he cried out, ‘Lord, save me!’ Jesus immediately reached out his hand and caught him, saying to him, ‘You of little faith, why did you doubt?’ When they got into the boat, the wind ceased. And those in the boat worshipped him, saying, ‘Truly you are the Son of God.’ –Matthew 14:28-33
Making a commitment and crossing the line is one of our most frightening and rewarding actions in life. What are the strong winds holding us back? Peter was an act-first and think-later kind of person. Jesus worked to help him marshal his talents to become the Great Fisherman for Christ. Others overthink what we should do to address an injustice, for instance, and end up doing nothing. We were all created in God’s image, gifted with talents and skills designed to make the Kingdom of God a reality. We need to find in ourselves those attributes and seek ways to contribute toward building God’s Beloved Community.
Out in the highways and byways of life,
Many are weary and sad;
Carry the sunshine where darkness is rife,
Making the sorrowing glad.
Refrain:
Make me a blessing, Make me a blessing.
Out of my life may Jesus shine;
Make me a blessing, O Savior, I pray.
Make me a blessing to someone today.
Tell the sweet story of Christ and his love,
Tell of his pow’r to forgive;
Others will trust him if only you prove
True, ev’ry moment you live. [Refrain]
Give as ’twas given to you in your need,
Love as the Master loved you;
Be to the helpless a helper indeed,
Unto your mission be true.
Prayer: Make me a blessing to someone today. Amen.
Hymn Make Me a Blessing by Ira B. Wilson see at https://hymnary.org/text/out_in_the_highways_and_byways_of_life
All scriptures are quoted from the New Revised Standard Version Bible: Anglicized Edition, copyright 1989, 1995, Division of Christian Education of the National Council of Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights are reserved.