Then he made the disciples get into the boat and precede him to the other side, while he dismissed the crowds. After doing so, he went up on the mountain by himself to pray. When it was evening he was there alone. Meanwhile the boat, already a few miles offshore, was being tossed about by the waves, for the wind was against it. During the fourth watch of the night, he came toward them, walking on the sea. When the disciples saw him walking on the sea they were terrified. "It is a ghost," they said, and they cried out in fear. At once (Jesus) spoke to them, "Take courage, it is I; do not be afraid." Peter said to him in reply, "Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water." He said, "Come." Peter got out of the boat and began to walk on the water toward Jesus. But when he saw how (strong) the wind was he became frightened; and, beginning to sink, he cried out, "Lord, save me!" Immediately Jesus stretched out his hand and caught him, and said to him, "O you of little faith, why did you doubt?" After they got into the boat, the wind died down. Those who were in the boat did him homage, saying, "Truly, you are the Son of God." After making the crossing, they came to land at Gennesaret. When the men of that place recognized him, they sent word to all the surrounding country. People brought to him all those who were sick and begged him that they might touch only the tassel on his cloak, and as many as touched it were healed. (Mt 14: 22-36)
Jesus made the disciples get into the boat and precede him to the other side of the sea. Jesus had planned this move. He wanted them to learn a lesson through the following event. The disciples also left for the other side because they were sure of themselves. At least some of them were fishermen and hence they knew the sea and they knew how to manage the rough sea.
Among the disciples Peter was certainly a fisherman. He was confident of himself. This is one of the reasons why he asked Jesus to let him also walk on the water. Jesus wanted to teach him (probably) a lesson so he let him do it. Peter tried it by himself and he was a failure. He had already said once to Peter unless it is revealed from the father you would not have said this.
Jesus taught the disciples that they should have faith. In the case of miracles also, Jesus told the persons who were healed that their faith had healed them. In life anything positive or successful is a gift of God and this is give for those who are men of faith. Faith is essential for a happy and successful life. Men of little faith also live their lives but they struggle through difficulties and problems.
