The Explanation

King Herod had a birthday party. Dancing, music, lots of food. But there was something dark hiding behind the party.

Herod had put a man named John the Baptizer in prison, just because John had told the truth. Herod was afraid of John, but he was even more afraid of looking weak in front of his guests. So when a girl danced for him and pleased him, he made a foolish promise: whatever she wanted, she could have.

Her mother told her what to ask for. John's head, on a platter. It is a hard thing to read, but it really happened. Herod was sad, but he did it anyway, because he cared more about looking strong than doing right. John's friends took his body and buried him. Then they went to tell Jesus.

When Jesus heard this sad news, he went away in a boat, to a quiet place. But the crowds heard where he went, and they followed him on foot. Jesus looked at all those people and felt something deep. He had compassion on them. He healed the sick ones.

Evening came. The disciples said, "Send the people away, so they can buy food." Jesus said, "You give them something to eat." They only had five loaves and two fish. That is nothing for five thousand men, plus women and children too.

Jesus took the little food, looked up to heaven, and blessed it. Then he broke it and gave it out. It kept coming and coming. Everyone ate until they were full. Twelve baskets of pieces were left over.

Later, Jesus sent his disciples ahead in a boat and went up a mountain alone to pray. At night, the boat was fighting against wind and waves. Then the disciples saw something walking on the water toward them. "It's a ghost!" they screamed.

"Cheer up! It is I. Don't be afraid," Jesus called out.

Peter shouted back, "Lord, if it is you, let me come to you on the water." Jesus said, "Come!" Peter stepped out, walking on the waves, right toward Jesus. But then he felt the wind, and he was afraid. He began to sink. "Lord, save me!" he cried.

Jesus reached out his hand immediately and caught him.

What Does This Mean?

This chapter shows two very different kings. Herod had a crown, but he was weak inside, ruled by fear and pride. Jesus had no crown that day, but he had power over sickness, hunger, wind, and water. Would you rather follow a king who is strong on the outside, or one who is truly strong?

The Common Thread

Long ago, God fed his people bread from heaven in the desert. Now Jesus feeds thousands with almost nothing, because he is that same God who provides. God once told the sea to be still. Now Jesus walks right on top of it. The disciples finally understood who he was. They said, "You are truly the Son of God!"

For You

When you feel afraid, like the disciples in that shaking boat, you can call out to Jesus like Peter did. You do not have to pretend to be brave. Peter sank, and Jesus caught him anyway. That is who Jesus is for you too.

Talk About It

Peter walked on water until he looked at the wind. What things make you look away from Jesus and start to sink?

Jesus had compassion when he saw the tired, hungry crowd. Who could you show compassion to this week?

Praying Together

Lord Jesus, thank you that you are stronger than storms and bigger than fear. When we feel like we are sinking, reach out your hand like you did for Peter. Amen.