And, It’s Morning!

Today’s Scripture Readings:
OT: Isaiah 3-4
NT: John 21
W&W: Proverbs 8

Today’s Reflection:
John 21 reports a post-resurrection appearance of Jesus to some of his disciples at the Sea of Galilee. They – following the lead of Simon Peter – had gone there to fish. They had fished all night but had come up empty. Verse 4 says, “Early in the morning, Jesus stood on the shore, but the disciples did not realize that it was Jesus.”

It was understandable that the disciples did not recognize Jesus. After all, it was early in the morning, and the day was not yet clear and bright. Also, they were about 100 yards from the shore. Having worked all night without results, they were tired, discouraged and distracted. It was difficult to focus. Jesus did not come to them in the “usual” way, the way that he had in the past on the Sea of Galilee – walking on the water. They were distracted by their labors and not ready to see Jesus. As we consider all this, we understand why they did not realize it was Jesus on the shore.

I remember an occasion when my dear friend Aaron tried to give me a Christmas gift in the midst of a time like this. Lana and I were trying to get the family ready to be out of town for a few days. I had worked long, hard hours at the church the several days before we were to leave. On the day we were leaving town, I had gone by the office for just a brief moment to take care of things and it had – as always! – taken longer than I wanted it to. I was frustrated and distracted. As I hurried out of the office into the parking lot, Aaron tried to give me a wonderfully thoughtful gift. As I remember the incident, I remember how unappreciative I was. (I hope Aaron doesn’t remember!) I was not ready to receive my friend, much less the gift he was giving me.

So, I understand the disciples unawareness of who it was on the shore. They weren’t ready for their friend. Jesus came, none-the-less. And may I personally testify that he has come to me as well? With the events of the past year and a half, the night has seemed long. Although the sun is rising, the day is not yet clear; I am still a good distance from “shore”; it’s never been like this before; and I’m distracted.

But here he is! And it’s morning! Hallelujah!

This Week’s Scripture to Memorize:
1 John 1.3: We proclaim to you what we have seen and heard, so that you also may have fellowship with us. And our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ.