After what may have been a long, difficult night of struggling in the midst of a tempestuous sea, the disciples see Jesus, “walking upon the sea.” He came to them “in the fourth watch of the night,” or in the early morning, and we see here that the sun is rising on a bedraggled ship and waves that are still dangerously high. In contrast to the sea and the ship and our own hearts, the Lord is untroubled, calm, and in control. “And immediately he talked with them, and saith unto them, Be of good cheer: it is I; be not afraid.” (See Mark 6:48-51 and Matt 14:24-27) The Lord teaches His followers how to be cheerful in the face of the uncertainties and pains of life. He said, “In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33) With the guarantee of hardship comes the hope and the reason for joy, for Jesus Christ has overcome the world. Those who reach for His hand will grasp His joy and His saving grace. - Joseph Brickey