Commands / Invitations

When Jesus instructs us, His commands are invitations. He is hanging from a crane in a Lifeboat and tells us to jump from the sinking ship into the boat He will pilot. When we stop trying to imagine having the strength and courage to jump that far, and realize the command is actually simply to release our grip on the sinking vessel, His strength will draw us into the air and then into the boat. Even the faith comes by His Spirit.

Immediately Jesus spoke to them. “Have courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.”

“Lord, if it’s You,” Peter answered Him, “command me to come to You on the water.”

“Come!” He said.

And climbing out of the boat, Peter started walking on the water and came toward Jesus. But when he saw the strength of the wind, he was afraid. And beginning to sink he cried out, “Lord, save me!”

Immediately Jesus reached out His hand, caught hold of him, and said to him, “You of little faith, why did you doubt?” When they got into the boat, the wind ceased.
(Matthew 14:27-32 HCSB ©®)