READ: Jn. 21:1–14: … a fire of coals … bread and fish … 153 … the net was not broken … Jesus took the bread and gave it …
A number of disciples, at Peter’s urging, go fishing at night on the Sea of Tiberias, but they catch nothing. Early in the morning, someone on the shore calls out: “Children, do you have any food?” His tone is familiar, yet they do not recognize Jesus.
When they answer that they have caught nothing, the Man tells them to cast the net on the right side. Immediately the net fills with an enormous catch. Only then does John recognize Jesus and tells Peter. Peter jumps into the water to reach Jesus, while the others struggle to bring in the heavy load.
The net remains intact. They count 153 large fish. Jesus invites them to a breakfast He has already prepared: fish and bread over a charcoal fire.
What is the message for the disciples—and for us? First, in their mission work the apostles will experience failure (no fish), but they must not despair. The exalted Lord will in His time give fruit. The gospel will reach many, and unexpectedly many will come to faith. It is not human effort but the Holy Spirit who changes hearts.
Second, the charcoal fire with bread and fish teaches that the Lord Himself is the Sender, providing everything His servants need for their labor in His Kingdom (cf. Matt. 6:33; 10:10; 1 Cor. 9:25; 2 Tim. 2:4).
How are we, as a church, engaged in this calling?
Sing: Ps. 96:5,6