Main news for 26 August 2025

Many of our contemporaries, accustomed to interpreting accounts of miraculous appearances rationally, find it hard to imagine that Christ could really have walked on the water. Such interpreters suggest that this episode should be considered a parable that almost by misunderstanding found its way into the main narrative. It can be noted, however, that there is much in the world that the wise have not dreamed of and that can scarcely be explained rationally. Let us not argue, but let us observe that Jesus not only spoke in parables; every action of His also had the meaning of a parable taught to those around Him. Therefore in the walking on the water, too, we have the right to see not a demonstration of unusual abilities producing a spectacular impression, but a lesson taught to the disciples, from which they themselves were to draw conclusions.

If Peter did not fully understand this, he at least felt it, and immediately rushed toward Christ over the water. He was able to walk on the water, and this means that what Christ does can also be accessible to His disciples. But halfway there Peter doubted, and this is so familiar to us. How often, having undertaken something, we give in to the false feeling, "Who am I to act this way?" And we begin to sink where we could have stood firm.

Yes, even after we have made a choice, doubts about its rightness are possible, and weakening faith can also contribute to falls. But even then Jesus stretches out His hand to us and supports us.