July 22, 2021 – Matthew 14-16

There is so much going on in these chapters: the death of John the Baptist, the feeding of 5,000, the storm, healings, and the continued opposition of the Pharisees. From the story of the storm and Jesus walking on the water, these verses jump out at me, this morning: “Peter got out of the boat and walked on the water and came to Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid, and beginning to sink he cried out, ‘Lord, save me’” (14:29,30).

No fear on the part of Herod except concerning what his guests might think of him. The Pharisees boldly stood opposed to Jesus without fear. But the hungry thousands! The Canaanite woman whose daughter was demon possessed! The hurting people who “came to him, bringing with them the lame, the blind, the crippled, the mute, and many others” (15:30)! Peter sinking down in the water! Either afraid or hungry or hurting, these “came to him.” Of course! They knew that Jesus was compassionate – “he had compassion” (14:14) – and that he could answer their every need. But here’s the thing, unlike Herod and the Pharisees, all these knew they were needy. And, so, they went to Jesus!

Come, ye sinners, poor and needy,

weak and wounded, sick and sore;

Jesus ready stands to save you,

full of pity, love, and power.

Let not conscience make you linger,

nor of fitness fondly dream;

all the fitness he requireth

is to feel your need of him. –Joseph Hart (1759)