Just a Minute . . .
Jesus had risen. The disciples knew that as they went fishing. Now they waited for him in Galilee as Jesus had instructed them. All night they fished to pass the time. Their nets were still empty as the sun came up. Then they saw a man standing on the shore as they fished. At his instruction they threw the net into the water and pulled up 153 large fish. Then the disciples recognized that the man they saw on the shore was their risen Lord. Imagine their surprise when they arrived on the shore and Jesus said to them, “Come and have breakfast.” A fire was already burning on the shore. Bread and fish sizzled over the hot coals. It was ready to be served. And the chef was none other than Jesus himself. It is rather amazing to think about. Jesus himself cooked breakfast for his disciples. He knew that the disciples had been up all night and would be hungry, and he prepared a meal for them.
Sometimes it can be easy to forget about this little fact about our risen Lord. We know that he rose from the dead on Easter. So as we face death, he comforts us with his power over death. He gives us peace by assuring us of our own crown of life. But what about today? How does the hope of heaven help us as we struggle though a day of work? Where is the peace when we are separated from loved ones who are deployed for weeks or months? What about the times our belly rumbles or the children are sick?
It’s at these times the simple act of Jesus preparing and serving his disciples breakfast serves also as a comfort for us. Jesus didn’t just rise and tell us he would raise us also, and then leave us to take care of everything else on our own. Our risen Lord also cares for our daily needs. He is the one who gives that gift of patience as you work with the abrasive personality in the office. He is the one who intercedes on your behalf as you cry out in prayer for your dear one fighting in the war. He is the one giving the doctors the skill to help your children. He is the one providing for each of your needs through the many people he equips and sends to help you. He assures you that nothing is going to separate you from the love of your risen Lord, not your death nor any hardship or trial that comes your way here on earth. The risen Lord continues to serve you even as you wait for the blessed life in heaven that he brings.
In HIS awesome service,
Pastor Dennis
