Reading about interactions between Jesus and the disciples is always so fascinating to me. These are His best friends who saw Jesus perform incredible miracles right before their eyes. More than anyone else, they had a literal front row seat to the Kingdom of God on full display through the ministry of Jesus.
Post-resurrection events are even more intriguing. Here we have Jesus, the master, giving the master fishermen instructions on how to catch more fish. (John 21:1-14)
The story is familiar to the point where we understand the importance of obeying the instructions of Jesus, recognizing the authority of Jesus and enjoying the abundance that Jesus provides.
And yet, there’s this beautiful moment of relationship and deep friendship that we can miss if we read it too fast, looking only for the instructive and for what we can learn to apply in our lives.
My favorite moment in this story happens in verse 9. “When they landed, they saw a fire of burning coals there with fish on it, and some bread.”
We know from this story that the disciples obeyed Jesus’ instruction to throw their nets on the other side of the boat. They trust the authority of Jesus even without recognizing who it was and then they are blessed with the abundant provision of fish.
But the moment in verse 9 shows us so much more about the character and love of Jesus, because even if the disciples hadn’t obeyed, hadn’t seen His authority and hadn’t received His abundant provision…there was already fish on the fire.
Jesus had already provided what was needed so that He could have breakfast with His friends, whether or not they caught any fish either on their own or with His help.
There was already fish on the fire.
Yes, we need to obey the instructions of Jesus. Yes, we need to recognize the authority of Jesus. Yes, we get to live with the abundant provision of Jesus.
But even if we don’t…there’s already fish on the fire.
Jesus calls you His friend. Jesus calls you brother or sister. Jesus wants relationship with you and will provide everything required for that relationship to thrive.
Worship leaders, the miracle in your congregation doesn’t come because of your obedience. It doesn’t come because you follow the magic instructions and unlock the abundance of Jesus for your church. The miracle comes because of the goodness and the faithfulness and the mercy of Jesus Himself.
We long for hearts that respond to the invitation of Jesus with obedience, as we honor His authority and as we see Him meet every need with abundance and overflowing grace but…even if we don’t…there’s already fish on the fire.
Find moments this week to enjoy your friendship and your relationship with Jesus. Look for His provision where He’s invited you to come close and enjoy this sweet fellowship with Him. What a privilege, what an honor, what a gift!