Do You Want to Walk on the Water?

Ellen Mongan explains what it takes to follow Saint Peter’s example, get out of the boat, and walk toward Jesus. 

Do you want to walk on the water? Peter was the only disciple who did. What does it take to get out of the boat and walk into the ministry God has called you to? Fearless faith, being able to travel light, willingness to journey with Jesus, and seeking God’s purpose for your life are a few qualities. 

Fearless Faith Gets You Out of the Boat 

I love the Word of God and often picture myself in scenes from the Gospel. In the story told in Matthew 14:22-33, I see myself as Peter. Why? When Jesus called to His disciples, they were terrified, thinking it was a ghost — all but Peter, who boldly replied to Jesus, “Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water.”  

All Peter needed was Jesus' invitation to “Come,” and he responded immediately. I picture Peter flying toward His teacher with wings of faith, almost unaware that he was walking on the water. When he kept His eyes on Jesus, he did not sink. 

Traveling Light 

If you want to walk on the water, you must travel light. Many people find themselves too busy to add one more thing to their already overcommitted lives to even get on the boat in the first place. They have left no time margin to be available when Jesus invites them to come. They are willing, but not able. They have not learned what good balance in life should look like. That takes time to learn. When they find their balance, peace reigns. 

For some, overcommitment is just a season. Other times, it is a personality trait. Trying to be all things to all people always fails and adds stress to one's life. We are only human. Usually, the problem is not learning to say “No!”  Even when their plate is complete, they take on more than they can handle peacefully. Many are happy in their overcommitted life and hardly notice that it is a real problem. 

It Takes a Journey 

Walking on the water is not a skill you learn instantly. It takes a journey. Look at the disciples. First, Jesus called them to follow Him, then He patiently taught, trained, and directed them. He got to know them, and they got to know Him. They knew His Voice.  

He is the same with us. He calls us to be His disciples, then teaches us through His Word, Bible studies, and the Church, all before He asks us to walk on the water. Taking on a ministry before the correct timing will not bear good fruit. 

If you are in a busy season of parenting five under five, pregnant with your third, injured, or sick, most likely God is not calling you to walk on the water right now. He calls you to live your whole life as a mother and wife. Do you walk on the water of His word daily, living your Catholic faith? Most likely, it is not adding anything to your overflowing plate. 

Did you ever doubt that you would get out of the boat? I assure you: You will! Be patient with yourself. Jesus is training you in His ways so you will fulfill the purpose for which He created you. Try to listen for His voice each day and do whatever He tells you. Be a reflection of God’s light.  

Getting Out of the Boat Gives Purpose 

People talk a lot about having purpose in their lives. When Jesus calls you, it is for a reason, not just a season. You are fearfully and wonderfully made. He has a ministry for you and handpicked you to do it. There is no one like you. Your purpose provides insight into why events in your life occurred. 

God has often called me to get out of the boat and walk on the water! He has called me to jobs, ministries, and life changes for which I was not qualified. He has opened doors I could never open and closed doors that He doesn’t want me to walk through. With a listening ear, a heart set on Him, and my eyes of faith to see, I have walked on the water a time or two. I believe that God will do the same for you in His timing. I will be praying for you. Pray for me, too. 

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Copyright 2025 Ellen Mongan
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