The Cost of Walking

On the sea

in the night

riding the storm

fighting the waves

Hours ago

on the shore

in the safety 

of solid ground 

The Master

feeding a multitude

with a lad’s lunch

partaking in the miraculous

Now

in darkness

tossed about

helpless against the waves

In the fourth watch

a figure appears 

where no figure

should be

Fear gripped our hearts

“It must be a spirit”

We cried out 

by reason of our fear 

“Have courage;

It is I; do not be afraid.”

Came the reassurance 

from the Master 

As brash as ever 

Peter called out 

“Lord, if it is you, 

bid me to come to you”

“Come.”

Peter stepped out 

and walked 

but when he saw 

the strength of the winds 

He began to sink 

“Lord, deliver me.”

Jesus reached out 

and took hold of him 

and they walked 

together 

What will it cost 

to walk through life's waves

to silence the force of the winds 

to keep a firm footing 

Trust— 

is the cost of walking 

Trust— 

the one who comes to you in trials 

the one who calls you 

the one who holds you  

The waves will not always abate 

The winds will not always die down 

The storm will not always cease 

Trust 

© Ron Simpson Jr. 

April 28, 2026