Peter demonstrates huge courage. Despite his momentary lack of faith, he went for it! He asked Jesus to call him onto the water and then stepped out of the boat. They were afraid that it was a ghost. According to Mark’s version, Jesus had intended to pass them by. Seeing their fear, Jesus came toward the boat and addressed them as “I AM,” a divine reference. Back in Matthew 8, they should have learned that Jesus has power over the wind and seas. However, they hadn’t processed fully the implications. This was neither the first nor the last test the disciples would experience.

Following Jesus tests and grows fortitude.

Fortitude is the strength to face adversity, danger or pain with resilience. Both timidity and rashness are challenged for those who become Jesus’ disciples. Aristotle taught that fortitude is the average between the vices of cowardice and recklessness. Jesus warned that we would experience tribulation in this world. Following Jesus prepares a person to handle life’s hardships.

Fortitude is both the strength to advance forward into the feared situation and it is also the strength to stay put when things get hard. Being a student of Jesus requires such grit. He tells us to take up our cross daily, a kind of mini-death. Where does the strength come from?

Despite our faithlessness, Jesus is always faithful. He not only pressed into his death with courage, but he also stayed on the Cross when he was being tempted to come down. He stayed for us out of love. His strength saves us and gives us the desire to grow in courage. His disciples grew such courage as to become martyrs.

Taking It Home: What “daily” cross is Jesus inviting you to take up this day?