Transformers

 

A Series on Lent: Peter’s Journey
 (Click on the link below to read the verses.)
Mt 14:22-36

 [Lent is a time of reflection. During Lent, we will be looking at Peter’s Journey to learn how his reflections on his own life, his culture, his religion and his savior changed his life forever.]

 

 

“Transformers” is a series of American science fiction action films that was inspired by the toy of the same name from the 80’s. The first movie was simply titled “Transformers” and came out in 2007. “Transformers: Rise of the Beasts” is yet to be released in 2023. Be sure to mark it on your calendar.

 

Peter had a “transformer” kind of experience. A more accurate description would be to say that he was transformed. It was when he tried to walk on water. But to fully understand why it was transformational, we need to look at the backstory.

 

The disciples were on a boat during the night in the middle of the Sea of Galilee when a full-scale storm came upon them. One translation puts it this way: “Their boat was tossed about by high winds and heavy seas”.

 

We can probably assume that some of the disciples, many of whom were experienced fishermen, had been up all night fighting the seas. It was during the fourth watch, about 4:00am, when things got really interesting. The disciples saw Jesus walking on the water! Terrified, they cried out, “It’s a ghost!”

 

²⁷ But Jesus spoke to them at once. “Don’t be afraid,” he said. “Take courage. I am here!^”                NLT

 

This statement is much more than Jesus just saying, “Hey, I’m here”. It’s a direct reference to Exodus 3:14 where God spoke to Moses saying that his name is “I am”. In this verse, Jesus is saying that he is “I am”; that he is God.

 

Emboldened by Jesus’ words, Peter questioned him, “Lord, if it’s really you, tell me to come to you on the water”. But when Peter tried to walk on the water and realized just how dangerous it was, he cried out with these three transformational words, “Save me, Lord!”

 

Following this, when everybody was safe in the boat on a quieted sea, Peter and the disciples realized not just what Jesus had done, but who he was.

 

³² When they climbed back into the boat, the wind stopped. ³³ Then the disciples worshiped him. “You really are the Son of God!” they exclaimed.    NLT

 

Meeting Jesus, the Son of God, on the Sea of Galilee, transformed Peter. Where have you met Jesus? Where will you meet him in the future? Whose life will he lead you to touch and transform?

 

Like Peter, may you and I come to that point in our lives of calling out to "I am" saying, “Save me, Lord”.

 

Copyright 2022 Joseph B Williams