Have you ever felt like giving up? Unsure of what to do next, you fall back on what’s familiar, even though it’s not fulfilling. That’s where we find Peter and some of the disciples in our Scripture passage today from the Gospel of John.
After the whirlwind of the crucifixion and the resurrection, they feel lost in the in-between. So, they return to what they know best: fishing. Only one problem—after being out all night in the dark on a boat, they catch absolutely nothing. Not even one fish. Just when all hope seems lost, Jesus Christ, the Savior of the world, shows up, not with condemnation, but with breakfast, hope, and grace. A hearty surprise!
It’s so easy to feel lost after failure and return to what is familiar, like Peter going back to fishing, believing life must simply go on as it always has. We often carry the weight of sin, shame, and disappointment, thinking we have to do more for God to make things right.
As we read this passage of Scripture, John quickly reminds us that it’s not about striving; it’s about God’s amazing grace. It’s about Jesus, who shows up and provides healing and restoration despite how broken, messy, or unrepairable things may seem. After all of Peter’s bold promises and painful failures, Jesus meets Peter right where he is. Jesus doesn’t scold or shame him. Instead, Jesus asks him, “Do you love me?” A gentle reminder to Peter of not only the power of forgiveness but also of God’s mighty transformative power, restoring Peter’s identity and reminding him of his calling.
When your net is empty and you feel depleted, Jesus Christ shows up for you on the shore, reminding you of who you are and whose you are—a beloved child of God. As you journey this week, be reminded that Jesus Christ loves you, no matter what!
Reflection:
- In what areas of your life do you feel like you’ve “fished all night” and come up empty? Where is Jesus asking you to trust him (even when it feels tedious or hard)?
- What does it look like for you to draw near to Jesus? Pause, reflect, listen, and be reminded of how much Jesus loves you.
- How would you respond if Jesus asked you, “Do you love me?”