Faith & Hope
Over the past weeks in our Scripture readings, we have heard about acts of faith and hope: the apostles in the midst of a storm at sea, waking Jesus for help; the parable of the mustard seed and the kingdom of God.
On yesterday’s celebration of the birth of John the Baptist, we read about the faith of Elizabeth and Zechariah in naming their “miracle child” John and his great work of heralding the coming of our savior.
This Sunday will bring two other familiar stories - the woman afflicted with hemorrhages and the synagogue official’s daughter. Each is healed by personally, or through another’s intercession, reaching out to Jesus, by having faith and accepting help.
Our Faith Friday reflections this month have followed a similar theme: Kim wrote about offering it up to God when others misjudge our words or actions. Kelly encouraged us to take giant steps in our call to holiness; no more fearful little baby steps; have faith! Alison gave us great examples of how to hold on to the good, especially in times of transition in our lives.
So, I shouldn’t be surprised that this artwork suddenly came to mind…
Of all the apostles, I think I identify the most with Peter. Like him, I can be brash and headstrong. I am capable of great love but also of failing greatly at loving. I admire how Peter steps out in faith to reach Jesus on the water, but then I identify with him as he falters dramatically when he loses his focus.
Don’t you love Jesus’ grip on Peter’s wrist?! It speaks to me of Jesus’ response of being there for his beloved. He will not let go. His grip looks stronger than superglue. I can feel Peter’s desperation in those tense, outstretched fingers and see Jesus’ strength in his stance and braced feet, holding on to Peter amid the wind and the waves. I can only imagine what Peter’s face looks like, but I bet it must be the opposite of Jesus’ calm, encouraging and totally-in-control gaze.
This depiction also reminds me that, at any given time, we can be either the Peter or the Jesus figure. It is good to know when to cry out for help and accept it and it is also very good to be the one whose hand reaches out to help another.
Please pray with me and for each other today: Lord, help me to hold fast to you whatever life brings my way.