Jesus walking on the waters is his self-manifestation to the disciples - revealing his divine power over the forces of nature. The fear of the disciples implies their lack of faith and understanding; at the same time it can be compared to the reaction of a person who is in the presence of the divine.

We recall how Jesus stilled the storm and calmed the sea in Mk.4:35-41 where the disciples also reacted with fear and awe (Mk.4:40-41). In both events their fear is closely linked with their imperfection of Jesus.

We can conclude that if we believe and recognize Jesus' love and put our faith in his love for us; then 'love will come to its perfection in us and we can face the day of judgment without fear' and acknowledge that we are still imperfect in love. (1Jn.4:11-18)

Do we place our complete trust in God even in small things in life? St Therese of the Child Jesus gives us a good example in her life. Let us then take up the challenge as disciples of Jesus to continue to perfect ourselves in our services to those whom Jesus has entrusted to our care and love. In this way we can recognize the true nature of Jesus.