Learning to FAll

  I have always thought it was humorous that whenever angels appear or miracles occur those involved seem to respond with fear. The Savior's miraculous experience of walking on the stormy sea of Galilee is no exception to this this rule. I can only imagine the fear that the Apostles must of been overcome with as those tumultuous waves beat against their vessel. I'm sure the miracle that they just witnessed of Christ feeding the 5,000 was far removed from their minds at this point. I'm sure seeing the Savior walk on water was something could hardly believe or expect either, however, Peter didn't seem to be so doubtful of the Savior's ability to do perform such a feat. In fact Peter was so sure of the Saviors power that  he knew that same could faith could allow him to follow the Savior even in the most unlikely fashion. It was Peters great faith that set him apart from the rest of the 12. It was his faith that enabled him to ignore all the chaos and focus on following the Savior. Indeed, is it not during the times distraction and chaos within in our own lives that detract us from following Christ.

It required great faith for Peter to even petition the Savior to come off the ship, but how much more faith did it require him to place the first  foot onto the boisterous surface of the sea. Certainly this instance is where Peter's faith was pushed to beyond his capacity. As Peter took those first steps he became distracted by the crashing waves and the chaos about him. As a result, his focus shifted from the Savior to the chaos, and he fell. This fall, however, further emphasizes Peters faith and understanding of the Saviors power, for he knew that his master was the only one who could save him. He didn't foolishly rely on his own ability, but on the power of Him. The Savior responded to Peter immediately just as he will respond to you or I immediately if we allow him to.

As we enter the waters of Baptism we make an oath to follow the Savior in every aspect of our lives. It is easy to so when life is convenient. True faith is displayed when we our able to follow the Savior despite the distractions that the adversary throws at us. In a very real way God is our father. He loves us, respects us, and wants us to overcome the adversity we face. Just like a parent is filled with joy when they see their child take its first steps so is our Heavenly Father filled with joy with every step we take in attempt to follow the Savior, even if we fall down along the way, I know God is thrilled that we were willing to take those steps. I'm sure his joy when, following that fall, we reach out to Him to pick us back up. I'm sure the Savior was filled with joy when He saw his beloved Peter take this first steps toward him.