The God That Walks on Water
At some point, every one of us finds ourselves caught in a storm—sometimes literal, often spiritual or emotional. In Mark 6:45–56, the disciples are battling a fierce headwind on the Sea of Galilee. It’s dark, they’re exhausted, and they feel alone. But they’re not alone. Jesus sees them. And He comes walking on the water.
That’s not something people do. As the scholar Gerald Massey said, “Dead men don’t rise, and men don’t walk on water.” And he’s right—unless that man is God. The early church wasn’t following myths or legends. As Peter wrote, “We were eyewitnesses of His majesty” (2 Peter 1:16). The disciples didn’t just hear a story—they lived it. And they were changed by it.
In this passage, Jesus “meant to pass by them,” echoing the moments when God passed by Moses (Exodus 33) and Elijah (1 Kings 19), revealing His glory. When Jesus says, “It is I,” the Greek is literally “I AM.” He’s not just calming the storm; He’s declaring Himself as the great I AM, the Lord of all creation.
And yet, what’s most moving in this miracle isn’t just His power, but His patience. The disciples don’t understand. Their hearts are hard. But Jesus doesn’t rebuke them—He reassures them. He gets into their boat. The wind dies down. Peace comes.
This story isn’t about Peter walking on water (Mark doesn’t even mention it). It’s about Jesus—His presence, His power, and His peace. It’s a reminder to all of us that when we are overwhelmed by fear, Jesus is near. He sees us. He comes to us. And He speaks words that still echo today: “Take heart; I AM. Do not be afraid.”
Whatever storm you’re facing this week, remember: you’re not alone in the boat. The God who walks on water is with you.
