Last week, (“Eastertide – Minds Opened“) we saw how Jesus proved  to the disciples that he had risen by appearing directly to them.

Then he opened their minds so they could understand the Scriptures. Luke 24:45

Later, the disciples go back to Galilee, but still seem a bit lost as to what they are to do. Fisherman blood runs through Peter’s veins. So he says,

“I’m going out to fish.” [Six others also said,] “We’ll go with you.” John 21:3

(Isn’t that like us? We have mountain top experiences; we have miraculous answers to prayer. The Lord leads us in understanding a new concept. But after a while, we’re back in our same old rut.)

After a night of fishing, but no catching, the men are ready to come in. Just then, they hear someone call from the shore.

“Friends, haven’t you any fish?” “No,” they answered. “Throw your net on the right side of the boat and you will find some.” John 21:5-6

When they throw their nets out again, the net is so full, they can hardly haul them in. The circumstances are all too familiar to a time long ago. John says, “It is the Lord!” Peter looks to the shore, then jumps in the water and swims the hundred yards to the shore where Jesus has a fire going with a few fish, and some bread for them.

Jesus said to them, “Bring some of the fish you just caught.” John 21:10

(Isn’t it like him to feed us? Not necessarily with food but with sustenance for our souls. Yet he asks us to contribute as well, to do our part. “Bring some of your fish.“)

After breakfast, Jesus  takes Peter aside and asks him three times, “Do you love me?” Jesus instructs him to feed and take care of his lambs and sheep, those who will be new believers and those who are faithful followers.

This is a call to Peter to be a leader and a witness. It also allows Peter to express his love to Jesus—three times—perhaps to undo his three-time betrayal.

Some time later, the disciples  travel back to Jerusalem for the celebration of Pentecost. For the last time Jesus appears to the disciples. He tells them to stay in Jerusalem until they have been “clothed with power from on high.”

“. . . you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” Acts 1:8

That word “power” in the Greek means “dynamite.”

Then, Jesus ascends into heaven before their eyes. 

Next week, we will see the results of that dynamite power!

~ Joyce ~