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When Herod Antipas heard about Jesus’s miracles, he thought John the Baptist had been raised from the dead (vv. 1–2). Matthew then recalls how Herod had imprisoned John for confronting his unlawful marriage to Herodias (vv. 3–4; Lev. 18:16). At Herod’s birthday banquet, Herodias’s daughter danced for him, leading to a rash promise. Urged by her mother, she asked for John’s head, and though Herod was distressed, he ordered the execution (vv. 6–11). John’s disciples buried him and told Jesus (v. 12). Hearing this, Jesus withdrew, but the crowds followed. Filled with compassion, He healed their sick and miraculously fed more than five thousand people with five loaves and two fish, with twelve baskets of leftovers—showing God’s abundant provision (vv. 13–21; cf. Ex. 16:4–5; 2 Kgs. 4:42–44).
Later, Jesus sent His disciples ahead by boat and went up the mountain to pray (v. 23). Before dawn, He came to them walking on the water (vv. 25–26; Job 9:8). Peter stepped out to meet Him but began to sink when fear overcame faith, and Jesus caught him, asking, “Why did you doubt?” (vv. 28–31). When they entered the boat, the wind ceased, and the disciples worshiped Him, saying, “Truly you are the Son of God” (vv. 32–33; cf. Ps. 107:28–30). Landing at Gennesaret, people brought their sick to Him, and all who touched even the fringe of His garment were healed (vv. 34–36; cf. Matt. 9:20–21).
🌀 Reflection: Where is Jesus calling you to trust Him even when the wind and waves are against you? Fear may sink you, but faith keeps your eyes on the One who never fails.
💬 Mission Challenge: Look for someone today who feels overwhelmed and remind them that Jesus is present, powerful, and worthy of their trust.
Just Keith Harris 
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