The Significance of Simon Peter Jumping into the Water

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Easter Season:  Friday*

*Gospel : Jn 21:1-14*

*First Reading : Acts 4:1-12*

*Responsorial Psalm : Ps 118:1-2 and 4, 22-24, 25-27a*

*The Significance of Simon Peter Jumping into the Water*

*1) The First Leap – A Risking Faith* (Matthew 14:22–33)

In the midst of a storm, Jesus approaches the disciples walking on the sea. 

Peter calls out, *“Lord, if it is You, command me to come to You on the water.”* Jesus says, *“Come,”* and Peter steps out. 

For a moment, he walks on water — defying natural laws — sustained by faith. But when fear overcomes him, he begins to sink and cries out, *“Lord, save me!”*

This moment reveals the beginning of faith — fragile, daring, easily shaken by fear. 

Peter’s willingness to step out of the boat represents the courage to leave comfort zones at the call of Christ. 

His sinking reminds us of human weakness. 

Still, Jesus reaches out — faith may fail, but grace does not. 

In our own lives, God honors even the trembling step toward Him.

*2) The Second Leap – A Redeemed Love* (John 21:1–14)

After the resurrection, Peter is again in a boat. 

This time, there is no storm, but a silent ache in his heart — he has denied his Lord three times. 

At dawn, Jesus appears on the shore. When John says, *“It is the Lord,”* Peter does not wait. 

He wraps his cloak around him and jumps into the water, swimming eagerly to Jesus.

This leap is different. 

It’s no longer about proving faith — it’s about pursuing love. 

Peter, once the bold and broken disciple, now races to Jesus not to walk on water, but to be near the One who forgives, restores, and calls him still.

*3) Together, These Two Leaps Form a Journey:*

The first leap says: *“I want to believe.”*

The second leap says: *“I know He loves me, and I love Him.”*

Peter’s journey mirrors our own: from impulsive faith, through failure, into restored love and mission. 

The same water he once feared now becomes the path to reunion with Christ.

Sometimes we leap with faith, and sometimes we leap with love. Both times, Jesus is there. 

Whether we sink or swim, succeed or fail, what matters most is the direction of our heart — toward Christ.

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*