“…But when morning was now come, Jesus stood on the shore: but the disciples knew not that it was Him.” John 21:4
Dear Ones:
The realization of our expectations and God’s timing can be synonymous, IF we wait on Him. There came a moment after the resurrection of Christ, after He Had revealed Himself to the disciples several times, that “waiting” had become a problem, especially for Peter. In short, he did not know what to do, while waiting for the “promise of the Father,” the out-pouring of the Spirit at Pentecost. So, we find impulsive Peter declaring, “I am going fishing.” The other disciples, most certainly being absorbed by the recent events, were very open to a distraction, or occupation, which would give them some relief of mind and heart. What better thing to do than to go fishing? The result was not exactly what they had anticipated. They fished all night, and were tired and hungry in the morning, having caught nothing. Then there was a voice which came to from the beach: “Children, have you any meat “(…or have you caught anything)? (Jn.21:5) In the same manner that Jesus saw the disciples and knew their plight when in the midst of a storm at sea, so here, He understands their thoughts afar off. He chooses this moment, when the quietness of the sea and circumstances provide a welcome context for Him to speak to the hearts of the disciples, especially to Peter. How does He do this?
First, the Lord Jesus, being on the shore, and the disciples in the boat, reveals to them that it is indeed Him, the risen Christ. “Cast your net on the right side of the ship, and ye shall find.” (v.6) In response to this command, the disciples catch an overwhelming number of fish. Seeing the miracle before their eyes, they become persuaded that it is the Lord Jesus on the shore.
Secondly, after preparing breakfast for the disciples, He speaks primarily to the heart of Peter. The Lord Jesus addresses to Peter’s heart that which is the most important issue that a man or woman can face with regard to God. “Do you love Me?” Three times He asks Peter this. Every time He asks the question, the centrality and reality of the truth, sinks deeper into the heart with convicting power. Peter is brought face to face with the FACT that he cannot love Christ, without the power from God to do so. It must be a love from God, from heaven itself.
Dear Father, there is no doubt that you bring us to the point of seeing that we cannot love without Thee. Without the power of Thy Spirit, how can we ever truly love? Fill us this day with Thy Spirit. “Love through us Love of God.” We thank Thee. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Love, Dad