Just Chewing

“And so when they got out upon the land, they saw a charcoal fire already laid, and fish placed on it, and bread.  Jesus said to them, ‘Bring some of the fish which you have now caught.’

“Simon Peter went up, and drew the net to land, full of large fish, a hundred and fifty-three; and although there were so many, the net was not torn.  Jesus said to them ‘Come and have breakfast.’  None of the disciples ventured to question, ‘Who are You?’ knowing that it was the Lord.

“Jesus came and took the bread, and gave them, and the fish likewise.  This is now the third time that Jesus was manifested to the disciples, after He was raised from the dead.” John 21:9-14

Just read the details.  It is so exciting to look at Scripture and imagine how meaningful the words are.  Jesus was the best fisherman and He had already caught fish for His disciples (He always provides what we need – not what we want).  

It was Simon Peter (who still had much guilt to erase in his own heart) who went to pull the fish and wet nets (estimated to weigh about 300 pounds) to shore. 

Isn’t it neat how there was a count of the 153 fish?  Although many have tried to attach some mystical meaning to the number nothing seems to work.  The number is to show how important it was to John to record details accurately for us. 

They would have sorted the fish before joining Jesus to divvy them up amongst themselves.  I imagine it was a rather quiet time, with fish being tossed into this or that pile, the sounds confined to furtive looks between the eleven and the sound of the water as it sloshed around their ankles.  

I’m sure they wanted to let Jesus know they knew in their hearts who He was but did not want to break the silence.  When they sat to share the meal so lovingly prepared by His hands it would bring to mind the ‘last supper’ where Jesus also served them. 

They would have been quiet so you could hear them chewing.  Perhaps they felt both expectant and a bit guilty that they returned to their previous occupation because they still did not understand their part in God’s plan.

PS:  If you are one who studies their Bible, this is actually the seventh appearance of Jesus to men since His resurrection and the third time He appeared to the eleven. 

Take care with love, especially His!  Your servant and friend in Christ, who still prays for you each morning.  Darlene

PS: Please send your prayer updates.  Find my statement of faith by clicking or cut and paste this link into your Web browser:  https://especiallyhislove.blogspot.com   You can find the WeakDay Devotion online by doing a Google search for “WeakDay Devotion.”  (Also, there is a “Google Blogger” App you can download to read them on your phone.)

NEW PRAYER REQUESTS

·        Pray for any new strangers in your church – Easter brings individuals into the church who need a warm and encouraging welcome.  Please pray for courage and love.

·        Paul –Has not had paying work since 2010.  Please pray for his ongoing resilience and that the Lord would allow him to be successful with a role.  I know the Lord is watching over him because of your prayers.  Most of all, pray his heart melts enough for the Truth to touch him where it hurts.  Pray for my wisdom and patience as he continues to stay here.

·        USA – that the Lord would demonstrate His power in an unexpected and uniting way during these times of unrest and confusion.  Help hearts settle and rest in Him alone.

·        Sergio – lost his job and is now looking again.  He was recently diagnosed with adult-onset diabetes.  Was living with his brother, but has been asked to move out, leaving him homeless.  

·        Toron – finishing his high school studies needs your prayers for continued strength, focus and confidence, especially with maths.

PRAY FOR THOSE IN FULL-TIME SERVICE