Eleventh Sunday after Pentecost

the Rev. Phil Brochard

Following the execution of John the Baptizer, Jesus seeks solitude to

grieve and pray while his disciples cross the Sea of Galilee. During the

night, they become trapped in a storm. In the exhausting “fourth watch,”

Jesus comes toward them across the water and says, “Take heart. I am. Do

not be afraid.” The sermon emphasizes that “I am” echoes the biblical

language of God’s divine presence.

Peter steps out of the boat toward Jesus but becomes frightened by the

storm and begins to sink. When he cries, “Lord, save me,” Jesus immediately

reaches for him. The preacher hears Jesus’ question—“You of little faith,

why did you doubt?”—not as condemnation but compassion: I am here, and I

will hold on to you.