He is always ready to receive us

I was reminded of the empowering story of Christ walking on water when I was taught by the sister missionaries at the TRC. I remember having studied this chapter in my religion class. For some reason, it made more of an impact on me this time around. It is found in Matthew 14 when the disciples are at sea, caught in a storm. Christ comes to comfort them; he is spotted walking on the sea as he approaches them. Peter, acting in firm faith, walks on the water also!
"But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me. And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him..."
Verse 30-31 mean a lot to me. Although Peter shows this great act of faith, he immediately doubts afterward. I think we have all experienced the doubt and fear that Peter experienced in that moment, whether in the short or long term.
In the midst of his doubting, he calls out for the Lord's help! How beautiful is that? And Christ immediately stretches forth His hand to catch him. As I reread this, I was reminded of my brother. He has fallen away from the church, from God. Although it hurts me to see his strong faith and testimony of God falter, I know that the Lord is waiting with OPEN hands to catch him. The Lord's love is forever. Quoting this same brother's mission email from years ago, "He never forgets. He never forsakes."
I know that just how he saved Peter during his doubts and fears, that the Lord saves us too. Even in the little doubts. However, we MUST seek Christ. He will deliver us. He will never forget us. I know that is true.