August 19, 2020: SOAP #3912:  Jeremiah 45-47; Psalm 105; John 21

Scripture:  John (NIV) 21:5 He called out to them, “Friends, haven’t you any fish?” “No,” they answered. 6 He said, “Throw your net on the right side of the boat and you will find some.” When they did, they were unable to haul the net in because of the large number of fish. … 9 When they landed, they saw a fire of burning coals there with fish on it, and some bread. 10 Jesus said to them, “Bring some of the fish you have just caught.” 11 Simon Peter climbed aboard and dragged the net ashore. It was full of large fish, 153, but even with so many the net was not torn. 12 Jesus said to them, “Come and have breakfast.”

Observation:  It is a fish story with a strange twist.  Jesus was not with them as much as He had been, so they decided to go back to their old way of life—fishing.  After fishing all night and catching nothing, the stranger on the shore suggested that they throw their net on the other side of the boat.  After so doing, their net was full (153 large fish).  They knew it had to be Jesus!  Impatient Peter jumps into the water heading for shore leaving the others to bring the boat and net full of fish. 

When they arrived at shore, they found that Jesus already had “a fire of burning coals there with fish on it, and some bread!”  Jesus already had that for which they had toiled all night!   

Application:   Two miracles I see:  First, Jesus gave direction to their fruitless efforts and they had an abundant catch!  O, how I need Jesus to direct my efforts.   Second, when they arrived at shore, they found that Jesus already had that for which they had been fishing!  Jesus anticipated their hunger and invited them to breakfast!  My need does not catch Jesus by surprise!     

Prayer:   Lord, Often, I have noticed that you started preparing the answer even before I prayed.  (The letter with the answer was postmarked even before I prayed!)  You anticipated my need and pre-answered my prayer.  You are amazing!     Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!