Finally, as daylight approaches they see an apparition walking on the water. They think it is a ghost and cry out in fear. And Jesus says, Take heart, it is I, do not be afraid. I have heard many stories this summer which lead me to believe a lot of us feel as if we are out in the boat rowing against the wind and waves, overcome by busyness, wondering when this summer will feel like the restful time we hoped it would be. Jesus says to us as we struggle in our real life situations, Take heart, it is I, do not be afraid.
Words are powerful.
Obviously, that expression is a defense mechanism against verbal abuse. Words build up and words tear down. Those powerful words directed at the struggling, overwhelmed, and terrified disciples offered them a new and better way to live. Hearing those words, they knew Jesus was with them. Knowing that, and by receiving him into their boat, into their life, the waves didn t seem so large and the journey didn t feel so long.