Call Out to Jesus

​Step #1: Lectio / Read

Click the link below or open your Bible to the passage and read through the reading at least once, paying attention to what is happening in the text.

MATTHEW 14:22-36

---

Step #2: Meditatio / Meditate

Use the following meditation to help you reflect more deeply on the Scripture (you may want to read the passage again).

Two years ago in Galilee, I was able to swim in that very water that Jesus walked on. While, I didn't try walking on it, I did spend time floating on my back, taking in the surroundings that would have been similar to what Jesus saw: the sky, the mountains, the trees, the towns. And I put myself in that Bible passage. If I was on that boat, would I have the courage to run to Jesus?

I would like to say yes. But if I am being honest, the answer is probably no. I am much like Peter. It is easy to start out bold, and the the doubt starts to creep in. I doubt myself, and more than that I doubt that Jesus will be there to catch me.

That day on the Sea of Galilee I had many fears: heartbreak, not serving the Lord, not leading others to Him, making mistakes and so many more. Today, I have new fears and many of the same. But the message the Lord spoke to me that day, is the same one He spoke to Peter, and the same one He speaks to us today. "Jesus stretched out his hand and caught him, and said to him, “O you of little faith, why did you doubt?”

Why do I doubt? There are so many reasons, but they all pale in the light of Jesus. Jesus is there when we are scared. Jesus is there when we doubt. Jesus is bigger and stronger than all of our fears. We just need to call out to Him.

---

​Step #3: Oratio / Pray

These questions are to be used to talk to God; have a conversation with the Lord about these questions and what is going on in your heart as you pray today.

Do you have the courage to run to Jesus?

Why do you doubt the power of Jesus? How does your doubt limit you?

​Where can you ask Jesus to increase your faith?

---

Step #4: Contemplatio / Contemplate

In this step, you listen. Stop talking, let God speak to your heart. You may repeat one of these short phrases to focus your mind on the Lord.

"Lord I want to come to you."

"Lord I need you."

​"Increase my faith Lord."

---

Step #5: Actio / Act

In light of today's reading and your time spent in prayer with the Lord, what concrete action or actions will you take to let this encounter with the Lord bear fruit in you today?

Spend sometime imagining you are in a boat, and Jesus is calling out to you? Do you get out of the boat? Do you go to Him? 

---

Smartphone Lock Screen

The following image is here for you to save and use as a background or lock screen on your smartphone or device to help you carry today's Lectio Divina with you the rest of the day.

---

Today's prayer was prepared by Lisa Majernik, a non-profit worker who lives with her husband and puppy in central Illinois.

If you have anything you'd like our team to pray for, please go to the page of our website called "Prayers" and let us know how we can pray for you today.