It is most likely that Jesus would have said this to us some time in our lives when we are in situations where we doubted the Lord's presence. That was what happened to the disciples when they saw Jesus walking on the water. Initially they were terrified (v.26). They thought it was a 'ghost'. When they heard Jesus' assuring words especially to Peter "Courage! It is me. Do not be afraid," together with Peter they felt safe and not fearful any more.

Jesus is asking us to have greater faith in Him. Like Peter who had enough faith to get out of the boat and walk on water but not enough to stand up to the storm. We need to be reminded that Jesus has the power to subdue nature.

For Matthew, the boat symbolizes the Church and the storm, the persecution. Doesn't this apply to us now particularly in the Malaysian context when the issues confronting us as Christians are real? What appropriate responses do we give? Today's readings also remind us that as disciples we are to learn to understand, though may still puzzle over the realities in our lives.

Are we certain of the Lord's presence in our lives? Like Elijah in the first reading (1 Kings 19), he recognized the Lord's presence in the gentle breeze. Similarly Paul in his letter to the Rom 9:1-5, talks about his ability to suffer for Christ. Are we ready for this?