John 21:1-14

After Jesus died on the cross and was risen, Jesus revealed himself to the fishermen. What were the disciples doing? Were they thinking about how to do Jesus’ work? Were they asking what Jesus had that allowed him to forgive and heal others? Was any of it real? Would you believe it if you were there? Wouldn’t you have questions?

 The disciples’ fear of the authorities and frustration about what to do next is understandable. Peter might have wanted to return to something familiar, like fishing. He decides, “I’m going fishing.”  The rest chimed in saying they would come too. If you were there would you have wanted to escape the mystery?

 All day they fished and found nothing.

 God oftentimes feels distant. There are times when we cannot feel his presence, his attention, or even his love. The Stranger on the shore said to the disciples, “Children, have you caught anything to eat?” There’s a clue. Is it not true we are all children of God? Yet they did not recognize Jesus’ voice. How often do we fail to hear God when he calls us? The Stranger spoke again, “Cast your net on the right side of the boat and you will find fish.”  They did as instructed. There were so many fish they couldn’t haul them into the boat! Finally John recognized the Stranger. “It’s the Lord!”  When they reached shore, Jesus had fish and bread for the disciples to eat. “Jesus took the bread and gave it to them. He did the same with the fish.” 

 As with the disciples, it is hard for us to believe Jesus is speaking to us or we are

not sure where he is guiding us. Our faith may be thin when illness strikes again and again and we do not believe our prayers are answered. Our faith is shaken. The disciples’ faith was also young and growing, needing reassurance that Jesus was still with them. Jesus forgave the disciples for their weak faith and yet trusted them to do the work he needed done. As thin as our faith might be, God still believes in us and trusts us to do his work.  He is within us. You can do the work. Listen! Trust what you hear. Listen! Don’t miss it.

PRAYER:  Dear God, Help our young faith to grow strong and help us believe in what we hear and believe in your mercy. Guide our Fishing Boat of Life to find the fish of everyday living. Amen.

 PROMPT:  What can I do in times when my faith feels tested and weak? How can I hear God speaking when I am overwhelmed?