This fifth sign in the Gospel of John records where Jesus walked on the water and proves that all the forces of nature are under His control.  “For by Him all things were created…” (Colossians 1:16a)

Jesus told His disciples to cross the lake to Capernaum while He went up onto the mountainside to pray. To the credit of His disciples, they obeyed Him even though they didn’t always understand His orders. It was already growing dark and to make matters worse, a violent storm came up without the usual warning signs known to the seasoned fishermen. When they had rowed approximately 5-6km (3-3½ miles) they saw someone approaching them, walking on the water. Given the context of darkness, the storm and the figure approaching them, they assumed it must be a ghost and they were filled with fear. But Jesus immediately reassured them by identifying Himself to them. They then welcomed His presence in the boat and immediately they reached their desired destination. Jesus did for His disciples what they couldn’t do for themselves, even for all their laboured rowing. He took them to the destination they couldn’t reach themselves.

This sign points to the difference the presence of Jesus can make in any difficult situation we may find ourselves in. As we welcome Him into our situation, He does in an instant what we unsuccessfully struggled to achieve with much effort. And He will be with us every step of the way. He does not leave us in the hard times and then meet us again once we’ve come out of it. Jesus didn’t wait for them on the other side of the shore, but got into the boat with them. The Psalmist wrote, “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil for You are with me.” He is as much with us through the dark valleys as He is with us during the good times. He will never leave us, nor forsake us. He is a faithful helper.

Scripture Reference: John 6:16-21

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