John 20:30-31

A Week of Miracles

John 21:1-14

A Week of Miracles

Let’s set the scene. This miraculous catch of fish happens after the resurrection and after Jesus has already appeared to the disciples multiple times. The disciples have gone back out fishing. They have moved on from the three years of following Jesus. They know that he was risen from the dead, but they don’t know what to do about that. So, they go back to what they do know: fishing. 

This is not the first time that Jesus performs this miracle with his disciples. In Luke 5:1-11, we have Jesus calling some of the disciples from their fishing boats. In that story, the same thing happens. And this begins their life and ministry with Jesus.

So back in John, after Peter and the disciples have abandoned Jesus, Jesus comes back and performs the same miracle that he did at the beginning. Jesus reminds the disciples of who he was and what he has called them to be: fishers of men (Luke 5:10). This propels Jesus into his conversation with Peter when Peter is reinstated to become the leader of the disciples and early church he is supposed to be. 

When you have strayed or feel tempted to go back to the life you had before Christ, remember who Jesus is in your life. Remember from what he called you and what he called you to be. Remember the miracles Jesus has performed in your life, and let that be what gets you through today.

John 6:15-21

A Week of Miracles

I don’t know why I find it fascinating that Jesus’ miracle of walking on water occurs right after the feeding of the 5000, but I do find it incredible to have such amazing feats occur one right after the other. Jesus is truly God over all creation!

What I want us to realize is why this miracle was even necessary. That’s why I started the reading in verse 15. The people wanted to anoint Jesus as the new earthly King of Israel. This was not his mission nor was this the type of kingdom he was going to rule, so he retreated to the mountains to get away from the people. The verses don’t say what he did in the mountains, but I think it is safe to imagine that he withdrew to pray to his Father in heaven to have the strength to withstand the temptation of fame and fortune from the crowds. His time with God the Father gave him the strength to continue the journey that the Father gave him.

Jesus’ action in between Feeding the 5000 and Walking on Water is a good example for us in our daily life. When temptation is great, we must retreat to spend time with our Heavenly Father. We must get away from the crowds to hear the voice of God. Jesus doesn’t stay away from the crowds. In fact, he’s back teaching them the next day (John 6:22-25). But what Jesus does is get away and calm his soul, so he can continue to withstand the temptations of this world. When you face temptation, let this be your example as well. Be with the Lord and let him give you strength.