A Pause To Ponder God's Word
"Go Fishing"

The postscript, or epilogue, in John's gospel (Chapter 21) has raised many questions. Its content, as well as its existence, has caused many a biblical scholar and student to wonder. Personally, its existence is no issue, but its content sends my mind whirring. Why, when such care is taken to name the disciples present on the beach, are two left unnamed? Why do these professional fisherman listen to the instructions from the yet unknown man on the shore, especially after an unsuccessful all night fishing adventure? Why do the men count the fish? Why didn't the nets break? Why did Jesus tell the men to bring fish from their catch when He already had breakfast prepared? And we haven't even reached Peter's life-altering beach walk with Jesus. But the first thing that tantalizes my pondering is that the disciples were fishing.

The resurrected Lord had already twice appeared to the disciples. No doubt could remain that He was alive. Though, not all was clear to them yet. This may be why they were together at the shore. These seven men were probably strolling along talking about recent events, discussing among themselves what it all meant. What were they to do now? As the sun began to set, Peter abruptly announces; "I'm going out to fish." (John 21:3) The rest quickly agreed with the idea and joined him.

We can only conjecture as to why they went fishing. There are undoubtedly many possible reasons. One likely reason is they needed to do something they enjoyed to help them relax and process all that was on their minds. With emotions frazzled and minds deluged with all the recent events, they needed to do something to relax, laugh, and clear their minds for a while. They were not really concerned with catching fish, which could be why they fished all night without catching a single fish. They were not running away. They were not going back to their old life. They were not evading the issue. They were fishing.

Sometimes we need to "go fishing." When things get overwhelming, it is good to take some time to go fishing. Jesus went to the desert or to the garden. I am sure that many of these times were for prayer and meditation, but some undoubtedly were times of a refreshing walk to clear His mind. For me it's a hike, exercising, or a basketball game. Whatever we do, it serves as a time to clear our minds and energize our bodies so that we can return to the issue fresh, alert, and ready to listen to Jesus.

After a night of fishing Jesus came to them on the shore. They were now ready to hear, obey, and learn. Especially Peter, who was to be confronted by Jesus about an crucial issue in his life.

Beloved, let's be sure to take some time and "go fishing."

Keep Close To Jesus
Pastor Gerry


A Pause To Ponder God's Word is written and distributed by Gerald Whetstone, Ordained Elder and teacher in the Church of the Nazarene. These devotionals may be transmitted, duplicated, used in part or in entirety without permission for nonprofit purposes only. Responses welcome. To Subscribe Click Here.
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