Jesus walks on water
This is perhaps one of the most iconic moments in the stories about Jesus.
What a scene! And how mysterious is this story! Did Jesus get left behind? With so many people around, did everyone think that he was with the others? Home Alone style? It seems like the disciples might have noticed that the main speaker was not there. And what a way to get back at the people who have left you – walk across the water and frighten the living daylights out of them! I am thinking that was probably not Jesus’ motivation. But it is a strange story, quite unlike others – Jesus does some stunning miracles, but usually for a purpose and out of compassion, he does not fly over buildings and amaze people superhero style. But here he walks on water. Was it purely to get away from the crowds – perhaps thinking – no one will see, I will just nip across. But he does not hide this part of himself from his closest friends though.
This image is so eerie and delightful – an ethereal figure coming out of the stormy seas, wind and rain. And it did terrify the disciples, though when they invite him into the boat they are saved from their arduous struggle with the water (having rowed for 3.5 miles in rough waters) and immediately get where they are going. (Note it says – they were willing to take him in – as if they may have refused! - a funny juxtaposition he can walk on water, but they are able to refuse to let him in?)
Jesus gives moments where he reveals himself; mystical, other worldly, way more than mortal man – a revelation of his God-ness. Jesus shows himself in many ways, that he is a person like us – he gets tired, he gets cross, he can die! But he is also not like us, he can still storms, feed 5000 people and walk on water.
I need both images of Jesus – his humanity and his utter otherness. In turbulent times I need to know that he felt and experienced this chaotic world as a person, but also that he is completely other, holy and unchanged by this mess.
QUESTIONS
I suggest sitting with this image of Jesus – walking through the stormy waters. What does this image offer you? Would you invite this other worldly Jesus into your boat?
Kirsty Hook