In John 21:1-19, the bible narrates a disappointing experience encountered by the apostles of Jesus. It is worth noting that in the days following the crucifixion of Jesus, the apostles were terrified and unsure of themselves. Many times, they gathered, probably to encourage each other and ensure their security.
It was at a time like this, that Peter maybe noticing that they didn’t have much left, decided that he was going fishing. In the spirit of oneness and brotherhood, all the apostles present volunteered to accompany him. Although the bible did not elaborate on this, common sense dictates that the apostles by their decision had to step out of their hiding place into the open, not minding what might be said or done to them by the people. The bible recorded “so they went out and got into a boat, but that night they caught nothing”. And when it was already morning, Jesus was standing on the shore. Jesus asked them, children, have you caught anything to eat? They answered “NO”.
As I read through the verses, the spirit of God whispered to my mind and asked, “Son how does it feel when like the apostles you damn every consequence, step out of your comfort zone, risk your life, work as hard as you can, and yet like the apostles you have nothing to show for it? I kept listening, and he continued, are you aware that Peter and some other apostles are expert fishermen? As I ruminated over these words, the spirit of God said, “sometimes efforts and expertise are not just enough”.
Again, he said, did you realize that throughout the night, Jesus was not with them? I kept listening and he said, “Son you must invite Jesus into whatever task you want to undertake”. He further added the presence of Jesus must be followed by your unalloyed obedience to his bidding or instructions.
Brethren, as we struggle and strive for success, the Lord in today’s gospel enjoins us to invite God into our daily activities. He asks us not to rely on our effort and expertise or experience alone, but to present whatever it is before him. He says once again, trust not on your understanding, come to me and I will give you rest.
Reading further, the bible recorded “when they climbed out on shore, they saw a charcoal fire with fish on it and bread”. Again, the bible did not tell where the fish and bread came from. Did Jesus himself buy the bread and fishes, or perhaps he fished himself. Dear reader, how do you feel after working tirelessly for hours? Maybe hungry, tired, and exhausted. Jesus understands this, and he prepared food for his apostles to eat. When we invite Jesus into our daily activities, not only does he guide us to success, but he watches our back, makes provisions and brings us comfort.
Again, the bible recorded that because of the number of fishes, the apostles were not able to pull in the net. However, full of one hundred and fifty-three large fishes, the net was not torn. This is an affirmation to Proverb 10:22 (The blessing of the Lord makes rich and adds no sorrows). When we invite God into our activities and obey his instructions, he perfects the work of our hands, we enjoy effortless success without the wear and tear of life.
Dear brethren, it doesn’t really matter how long we have been struggling without success. Maybe, we have done all we can, we have put in the work not only by effort but also by expertise. Yet we are still nowhere close to success. Maybe, we have failed to a point that we feel like giving up. Or perhaps, like the apostles, we are heading to the shores to call it a day. Jesus is standing by the shore, he has been there all through waiting for you. Talk to him, invite him into your situation, and obey his instruction. He never sleeps, he never slumbers.
Towards the end of the chapter, Jesus entrusts Peter with the leadership of the church. However, before doing that Jesus through his encounter with his apostles demonstrated to Peter, that to be successful in leading the church, he must listen and follow his instructions.
Today, as we resolve to invite Jesus into our lives and obey his instruction, I pray that the Lord of abundance, the maker of all things, will guide your hearts to succeed in your endeavors.
PEACE BE WITH YOU
Nwabor, Ozioma Forstinus