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Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Today's Frontline Devotion Sunday, August 24, 2003 GET OUT OF THE BOAT |
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Frontline Devotion for Sunday, August 24, 2003 by Anne B. Crawford
Text for the Day: Matthew 14:13-36
“Come on, you can do it!” I can still hear the words of my father, as I learned to ride a bike for the first time without training wheels. Dad provided the stability with his hands on the back of the bike until that magic moment when he let go and suddenly, there I was, pedaling on my own, keeping my balance (at least for awhile), and actually cycling on my own! What a thrill to know that I had taken the first steps (actually pedal pushes) on a whole new adventure that would, quite literally, take me places I had never been before.
In today’s reading, Peter is eager to begin a new venture too, to join Jesus on the water. But first, he needs to be sure Jesus will be there for him (He is) and then – he has to step out of the boat.
I was recently introduced to a book called “If You Want to Walk on Water, You’ve Got to Get Out of the Boat” by John Ortberg, Pastor of Willow Creek Community Church in South Barrington, IL. The book uses the story in today’s reading to encourage believers who are “sitting in the boat” to “get out of the boat” and experience the power of God, as we trust Him to do things beyond what we could imagine. The words have stuck with me – in order to go with Jesus and grow in my faith life, I have to be willing to risk, to step out in faith and let God lead me and show me what He can do when I put my trust in Him.
Scary? You bet! But Jesus’ words to Peter, “Take Courage! Don’t be afraid” are there to provide strength. Are you sitting in the boat? What’s keeping you from stepping out and moving towards Jesus? Will those steps take you places you’ve never been before? Quite possibly. But if we play it safe, we’ll miss all kinds of opportunities to experience God’s powerful presence and daily miracles.
So, come on, you can do it! Get out of the boat – Jesus is waiting!
Prayer of the Day: Dear God, you call us to come out to you as we are. Help me set aside my fears and doubts. Give me courage this day to step out in faith so that you can lead me in your paths, and for your purposes. Amen
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All are welcome to join and share in our Devotional Ministry. Pastor Dave welcomes and appreciates feedback. pastordave@goodshepherdonline.org.