Matthew 14:22-33: I really wanted to to see if I could bring this scripture to life in a way where I could capture the supernatural movement of Jesus' feet gliding across the surface of the water.
As I was painting it, I was thinking a lot about the faith it took for Peter to walk on water towards Jesus as well. And started to ask myself the question, "What is water walking faith in my own life?"
In Matthew 14, we read that the disciples of Jesus are by themselves far away from land in a boat being tossed by waves. Around the time of daybreak, the disciples cry out in fear because they see a figure walking towards them.
Jesus says, "Take courage, don't be afraid, its me."
I love Peter's response to this scene and the words he has just heard. He says, "If it's you, tell me to join you on the water." And Jesus simply says, "Come."
Then Peter left the boat and stepped out on the waves. Can you imagine the incomprehensible feeling of water firming up beneath your feet as you step towards Jesus who has just invited you to walk with Him?
It's here I think about water walking faith. There is a place where fear is the narrative because of storms and the circumstances beating against you. Christ reveals Himself by reminding you that you do not need to be afraid.
It's hard to trust that voice, even when you know it's the truth of the one who calms the storms and the one who walks on water. Yet fear creates doubt. So you ask, "Jesus is that really your voice? If it is tell me what to do? Tell me to walk as you walk."
Jesus says come, and then you take one step at a time towards Him. And even if fear comes back because the storms rage louder against you, and you start to feel the water give way - Jesus extends His hand to you as soon as you waver and brings you back on your feet.
When they entered the boat together, the wind and storms ceased. This is who He is. I feel an invitation in this painting where God is asking the question, "Do you trust me?"
