Jesus Walks on Water
April 8, 2019
Commentary
Jesus urged His disciples to get into the boat and go ahead to Bethsaida while He dismissed the crowd (v. 45). The people wanted to make Him king, but this was not His purpose. Jesus then went up on a mountain to pray (v. 46). Later, He saw the disciples struggling against strong winds on the sea (vv. 47–48). It was late at night, and they were in difficulty, even though they were obeying His command, reminding us that obedience does not always remove challenges from our lives, but often leads us into deeper trust and dependence on God through every situation we face each day with faith in Him.
In their struggle, Jesus came to them, walking on the water (v. 48). They were afraid, thinking they had seen a spirit, but He spoke to them, saying, “Be of good cheer: it is I; be not afraid” (v. 50). He got into the boat, and the wind stopped. The disciples were amazed, for they had not fully understood His power (vv. 51–52). This shows that Jesus not only sees our struggles, but He comes to us in them, bringing peace and strengthening our faith when we trust Him, even when circumstances seem overwhelming and beyond our control.
When they reached the shore at Gennesaret, people recognized Jesus and brought the sick to Him (vv. 53–55). Many begged to touch even the edge of His garment, and all who touched Him were healed (v. 56). This reminds us that while many come to Jesus in need, we must also examine our hearts. Do we only seek what He can give, or do we truly seek Him? God calls us to move beyond selfishness, to love Him deeply, and to respond with faith, gratitude, and a willing heart to serve Him daily, honoring Him with our lives and choices in every moment. We must seek Him with sincere hearts daily.
Application
I think about how I respond in difficult moments. Do I trust Jesus when I face struggles, or do I become afraid? Do I recognize His presence with me? Am I seeking Him, or only what He can give? In every storm, I want to seek You with a sincere heart, and follow You with faith, peace, and daily obedience.
Mark 6:45–56 (NET)
45 Immediately Jesus made his disciples get into the boat and go on ahead to the other side, to Bethsaida, while he dispersed the crowd. 46 After saying goodbye to them, he went to the mountain to pray. 47 When evening came, the boat was in the middle of the sea and he was alone on the land. 48 He saw them straining at the oars, because the wind was against them. As the night was ending, he came to them walking on the sea, for he wanted to pass by them. 49 When they saw him walking on the water they thought he was a ghost. They cried out, 50 for they all saw him and were terrified. But immediately he spoke to them: “Have courage! It is I. Do not be afraid.” 51 Then he went up with them into the boat, and the wind ceased. They were completely astonished, 52 because they did not understand about the loaves, but their hearts were hardened.
53 After they had crossed over, they came to land at Gennesaret and anchored there. 54 As they got out of the boat, people immediately recognized Jesus. 55 They ran through that whole region and began to bring the sick on mats to wherever he was rumored to be. 56 And wherever he would go—into villages, towns, or countryside—they would place the sick in the marketplaces, and would ask him if they could just touch the edge of his cloak, and all who touched it were healed.
Tennis Ball or Play Dough
We are all affected by the storms and struggles of life. The question to consider is how are you going to respond? Like a tennis ball or play dough? You see, when you put pressure on playdough, it leaves a lasting imprint. Everybody can tell that … Continue