A Prayer about Mistaking Jesus for a Ghost
But when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were terrified, and said, ‘It is a ghost!’ And they cried out in fear. Matthew 14:26
Precious Jesus,
How kind you are
to your weary and confused disciples.
The disciples had earlier that day
watched as you made five loaves and two fish
into a feast for over five thousand people.
Now they are out on the sea,
and a fierce storm has come up,
and they are frightened.
When they see you walking toward them,
they mistake you for a ghost.
We confess,
we too sometimes mistake your movement toward us
for something frightening.
We too sometimes lose sight
of your compassion
and your power.
We too sometimes forget
that you are the one who brings hope and calm
in the midst of mighty maelstroms.
When we are afraid and get confused about who you are,
give us ears to hear
the words you spoke to your disciples,
“Take heart; it is I.
Do not be afraid” (Matthew 14:27).
In your storm-calming name we ask. Amen.
Read Matthew 14:22-33.
Elizabeth Reynolds Turnage
author, life and legacy coach, speaker
Elizabeth Reynolds Turnage is the author of Preparing for Glory: Biblical Answers to 40 Questions on Living and Dying in Hope of Heaven.
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