Transitions are challenging times for most of us – and youths increasingly face the disruption of transitions in their lives. How can they be supported to step out boldly in faith through the transitions they face?
In the story of Jesus walking on water, we find the disciples trapped on a boat, struggling to row against the strong wind and waves. Amidst their distress Jesus appeared, walking towards them on water. Though they believed Him to be a ghost, Jesus told them not to be afraid, for the great I AM was with them.
Peter then called out to the Lord asking for assurance to walk to Him on water. Jesus replied, “Yes, come,” so he stepped out of the boat and began walking towards Jesus. Halfway through, he noticed the strong wind and waves. His faith faltered and he began to sink so he called out to Jesus to save him. Jesus immediately reached out and saved him but also mentions that Peter had little faith and doubted him.
It seemed as though Peter did not have enough faith and could have afforded to place more trust in Jesus. Yet, we must also remember that Peter was the only disciple in this passage to be mentioned by name. In the midst of the storm, while the other disciples waited and cowered on the boat, Peter chose to call out to Jesus. He chose to step out of the boat and although his faith was little, for a brief moment it was enough for him to walk on water.
Being caught up in the hustle and bustle of life, it can be easy for us to focus on the turmoil around us rather than on a Saviour who is able to command even the wind and waves. But if we are willing to take that first step of faith and trust in our Lord, the seemingly impossible can be overcome.
Is the Lord calling you to step out in faith? Are you willing to take that first step and trust in Him?
TRACKERS is a three-month discipleship programme for youths in transition (those who are completing their ‘O’ Levels, ‘A’ Levels, or National Service) from Trinity Annual Conference churches. During the programme, the youths will go through lectures to help them prepare for outreach and to deepen their relationship with God. Subsequently, they will go on an overseas mission trip. After they return, they will participate in a creative arts outreach.
If you know of any youth whom the Lord is calling to venture with Him through TRACKERS, encourage them to step out in faith and sign up for the programme by sending an e-mail to trackers2017@gmail.com. Registration closes on 23 Dec 2016.
For more details, visit truthmin.com/trackers
Rebekah Lim –
is an Associate Christian Ministry Staff at Truthmin (TRAC Youth Ministries) and is a member of Faith Methodist Church.
Images courtesy of Truthmin