Command Performance.

When it was already very early morning, Jesus stood on the beach, but the disciples did not know that it was Jesus. So Jesus said to them, “Children, you don’t have any fish, do you?” They replied, “No.” He told them, “Throw your net on the right side of the boat, and you will find some.” So they threw the net, and were not able to pull it in because of the large number of fish. (John 21:4-6, NET)

Jesus could have asked, “Guys, why are you out here fishing? Didn’t I take you away from all this?” But He did not say that. In His love and compassion He asked, “Children, have you caught any fish?”

Jesus met the disciples in the midst of their failing attempt at self-sufficiency. He does the same for us. And, what is even more amazing is that He blessed them, just as He blesses us, with a demonstration of His miraculous provision. Yes, you are professional fishermen, but I am the one who spoke life into all the fish. I can command the fish to swim into your net, instead of away from it.  

Let us learn a lesson from the disciples, and from our Lord: without the presence and help of Jesus, our best efforts are in vain. But, when He intercedes on our behalf, we see the “impossible” become reality; we become witnesses of His grace and power; we are encouraged to let go of our personal agendas, even the agendas that seem logical; and we fully submit ourselves to God, who is Lord over all.

Lord God, our Father and King, You are all that we want… and You graciously supply all that we need. Thank You.