The guys were taking a night to try to find normal again.
A crazy rollercoaster of experiences and emotions in the last couple of weeks had shattered their world – and now they still felt unsure of which way was up. More importantly, they were unsure of what they should do next.
So they went fishing – something they knew well, something routine and ordinary.
But things still seemed askew and off – because no matter their efforts and expertise, after working all night there were only dripping empty nets, growling stomachs, and bleary, red-rimmed eyes in the grey, early morning light.
Then, a stranger walking in the early morning mist on the nearby shore called out in a friendly, fatherly way, “Hey guys, catch anything?”
Ruefully they called back, “Nope, nothing – not even after being out all night!”
Probably with a smile in his voice, the stranger called back, “Try the right side of the boat.”
Maybe they rolled their eyes at this advice, maybe they were too tired and hopeless to argue. Maybe they figured it was just so inane it was worth a shot, so they did as he said…
And immediately their net almost slipped from their hands with the weight of the heavy catch of fish that filled it to nearly bursting.
Then – after recognizing the stranger as Jesus, their newly-risen Savior, and Teacher – the suddenly rejoicing, energized men were welcomed from the coldness of the morning sea to a brightly flickering fire on the beach.
Then Jesus himself, the Lord of Life and Creator of the Universe served them a hot breakfast of grilled fish and bread. (John 21:1-13)
He who should have been served instead tenderly served the same men who had recently abandoned him, denied him, and hid from being recognized as his followers. He who could have sharply reproached instead showed heart-breaking kindness.
This gracious, humble, and loving Savior is the one who cares for you and me in all our weaknesses, brokenness, and struggles today. When we work wearily without success, when we feel hopeless and uncertain and discouraged – He is the one who asks us to tell the truth of our lack (“Nope, we got nothing!”), and then to try again – with him.
Any outcome of our efforts is his gift. “For without me you can do nothing.” (John 15:5)
And then he welcomes us to sit with him and be warmed and fed – and he himself serves us.
This is our Lord – and in his kindness, he is lovely beyond words.
I pray that you are comforted and fed today in the rich satisfaction of knowing the kindness of our King – and find in his kindness the hope to go on.
This is an updated edition of a post originally published on East Willow Place
Featured Image by Lynne Pelzek on Unsplash
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