A Hand Above the Waves

After feeding the crowd, Jesus sent his disciples ahead in the boat. He stayed to send the people home and then went to pray.

The disciples traveled across the lake. But the wind blew against them, and waves struck their boat.

The night seemed very long.

Waves surrounded the boat as the disciples rowed.

Before dawn, they saw someone coming toward them on the water. It was Jesus, but at first they did not recognize him and were afraid.

He spoke to encourage them. He told them it was him and that they did not need to be afraid.

Peter asked to come to him on the water. Jesus invited him to come.

Peter stepped out of the boat and began walking toward Jesus. But when he noticed the wind, he grew afraid and began to sink.

He called to the Lord for help.

Jesus reached out his hand and held Peter.

He did not leave Peter alone in the water. He spoke about Peter's trust and went with him to the boat.

When they climbed aboard, the wind stopped. The disciples recognized that Jesus was the Son of God.

This story shows Jesus helping a friend who needed his hand.

When something is too much for us, we can say we need help. That does not make us less precious.

We can trust Jesus and listen to the people who care for us. A hand offered at the right time can help very much.

Jesus cares and helps, and we can share his kindness.