JP73:Unexpected Advent: How The Arrival of Jesus Helps Us Weather Uncertain Times

As Jesus’ disciples move from feeding the masses to spending some time away on the other side of Lake Gennesarat, they find themselves in an unexpected storm, battling waves and wind, when Jesus approaches them, walking on the water.  In Matthew’s own words:

“Immediately he made the disciples get into the boat and go before him to the other side, while he dismissed the crowds. And after he had dismissed the crowds, he went up on the mountain by himself to pray. When evening came, he was there alone, but the boat by this time was a long way from the land, beaten by the waves, for the wind was against them. And in the fourth watch of the night he came to them, walking on the sea. But when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were terrified, and said, “It is a ghost!” and they cried out in fear. But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, “Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid.” And Peter answered him, “Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water.” He said, “Come.” So Peter got out of the boat and walked on the water and came to Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid, and beginning to sink he cried out, “Lord, save me.” Jesus immediately reached out his hand and took hold of him, saying to him, “O you of little faith, why did you doubt?” And when they got into the boat, the wind ceased. And those in the boat worshiped him, saying, “Truly you are the Son of God.” Mt 14:22–33.

Initially terrified, they mistake Jesus for a ghost. But He reassures them: "Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid." Full of faith yet humanly uncertain, Peter asks to join Jesus on the water. With Jesus’ invitation, Peter steps out of the boat and miraculously walks toward Him. However, when Peter becomes distracted by the wind, he begins to sink and cries out, "Lord, save me!" Jesus immediately reaches out, catches him, and gently admonishes, "O you of little faith, why did you doubt?"

This passage offers a profound metaphor for living a life patterned after Jesus, especially during the hectic Christmas season. It challenges us to step out of the comfort and safety of our "boats" and trust Jesus, no matter how turbulent the waters of life may seem.

1. Recognizing Jesus in the Storm

The Advent season reminds us that Jesus often comes to us in unexpected ways and times. The disciples were caught off guard when they saw Jesus walking on the water, much like we can be when He shows up in our life storms. Through challenges, unanswered prayers, or moments of quiet reflection, Jesus reveals Himself in ways that test our ability to recognize Him.

During this Advent, let us slow down and quiet our hearts to discern His presence. Amidst the busyness of holiday preparations, ask yourself: Where is Jesus walking toward me this season? Is He calling you to trust Him in a situation that feels overwhelming? To embrace a challenging relationship with grace and love? To prioritize time with Him over the distractions of the season?

2. Stepping Out in Faith

Peter's boldness to step out of the boat is a beautiful example of faith in action. He didn’t wait for the storm to calm; he immediately responded to Jesus’ invitation. Advent calls us to similar boldness. As we prepare our hearts to celebrate the birth of Jesus, we are reminded that faith requires action.

What is Jesus inviting you to step into during this season? Perhaps He is calling you to reconcile with someone, to give sacrificially, or to serve in a way that stretches you. We may feel hesitant or unsure like Peter, but Jesus’ presence is our assurance. He doesn’t call us to walk on water in our strength; He calls us to walk with our eyes fixed on Him.

3. Keeping Our Eyes on Jesus

Peter’s experience reminds us how easily we can lose focus. Fear overtook him when he turned his attention to the wind and waves and began to sink. Similarly, Advent can be when distractions threaten to shift our view from the season's true meaning.

Keeping our eyes on Jesus means focusing on Him amidst the noise. Develop a habit of spending time in His Word each day, meditate on the promises of His coming, and seek Him in prayer. Remember that Advent is not just about preparing for Christmas; it’s about preparing our hearts for His continual presence in our lives.

4. Crying Out When We Sink

Even in Peter’s moment of doubt and sinking, he knew where to turn: "Lord, save me!" Jesus’ immediate response demonstrates His readiness to rescue us, no matter how far we may feel from Him. As we wait expectantly, we are reminded of the beautiful truth that Jesus came into the world to save us and promised never to leave us as we walk through the ups and downs of life. (Matthew 28:20)

Don’t let shame or fear keep you from crying out to Him when you struggle. Jesus is always near, ready to reach out His hand.

5. Worshiping in Awe

After Jesus calmed the storm and brought Peter back into the boat, the disciples worshiped Him, declaring, "Truly you are the Son of God." As we reflect on the miracle of Jesus’ birth and His ongoing work in our lives, let us respond with awe and adoration.

Take moments during this season to pause and thank Him for His faithfulness. Worship Him for being Emmanuel—God with us—who walks toward us in our storms and invites us to walk with Him.

A Life Patterned After Jesus

Jesus’ meeting the disciples on the stormy sea challenges us to step out of our comfort zones and trust Him. Advent amplifies this call, reminding us of the incredible gift of His presence and power every day.

As followers of Jesus, let us pattern our lives after Him by walking in faith, recognizing His presence, and worshiping Him fully.

Reflection Questions:

1. What "storm" in your life is Jesus calling you to trust Him in this Advent season?

2. How can you step out of your comfort zone in faith this week?

3. In what ways can you intentionally focus on Jesus and worship Him?

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for coming to us, even in the storms of life, and reminding us not to be afraid. As we journey through this Advent season, help us recognize Your presence in every moment—especially in the unexpected and challenging ones.  Give us the courage to step out in faith, trusting that You will hold us steady. Forgive us when we become distracted by the winds and waves, and remind us to fix our eyes on You, the author and perfecter of our faith. Amen.

Photo by Mark mc neill on Unsplash