Pondering John 21:1-14.
Everyone has opportunities to lead. And we since we can often feel inadequate, can learn a lot from this passage.
The disciples had seen the resurrected Christ twice. They had experienced Him. But what were they to do with the truth they knew about Jesus? Perhaps they were floundering a bit.
Peter was with 6 other disciples, all who would become leaders of the Church. He said to them, “I’m going out to fish.” So they all followed him to the fishing boat. Yes, Peter was definitely a leader. I’ve heard many teachings and read many commentaries about why he could have decided to return to fishing. Some say Peter was frustrated. Some say he was not patiently waiting. Some say he was reverting to his old life. Generally they are not very kind to Peter.
I have different thoughts. I’ve been confused about my Ephesians 2:10 calling during different seasons of my life. And there are times I haven’t been clear about my next step. An opportunity where I served ended and I didn’t know what was next. And I know other leaders have experienced the same confusion. Perhaps Peter would agree.
What I have come to realize is, like Peter, in times of uncertainty, we can push forward and live life—always for God’s glory. We continue going to the office. We continue parenting from home. We continue fulfilling the duties of our profession. We live life. But as recipients of the Holy Spirit, we do it as we listen for God’s voice of direction. We keep our eyes on the goal, the eternal perspective.
What we know for certain is that Jesus met the disciples where they were—fishing. And He revealed rich life lessons for all who would lead others to follow Him.
The disciples fished all night without any success. Surely they were exhausted.
They didn’t recognize the man on the shore (Jesus) as He called to them, “Friends, haven’t you any fish?” You and I know Jesus knew the answer to this question but He doesn’t ask questions without a reason.
The disciples answered Him honestly. “No.”
First lesson for leaders: We need to be honest with God and honest with ourselves. And sometimes that will mean acknowledging our failures. Humility is exactly where God does His best work. It’s where His riches are revealed to us.
The man on the beach (Jesus) instructed the disciples to cast their net again with the assurance that they would find “some.” They obeyed and “when they did, they were unable to haul the net in because of the large number of fish.”
Lesson for leaders: These professional fishermen knew how to fish but their experience and abilities did not stop them from listening to someone else. And their teachable spirits were rewarded. Leaders should always first be disciples.
They obeyed Jesus’ directions. As leaders, this is crucial. We must obey if we want to experience an abundance in our nets.
Our highest calling is to share the gospel. It is hope for this world. It is the answer to the void in hearts when people are searching for what truly satisfies. It is the way to truth and life. “Casting our net” covers both evangelism and discipleship. Make no mistake, every follower has been instructed by Jesus to “go and make disciples.” By the power of the Holy Spirit, we learn, share, and teach.
When the disciples went to bed that night and pondered the events of the day, I wonder if they remembered Jesus telling them in the garden, “Apart from me you can do nothing.” That is exactly what they experienced that day.
Apart from Jesus, there was no success. With Him, they were successful. Apart from Jesus, they struggled, exhausting themselves only to feel defeated by their task. With Him, their task was accomplished quickly and was surely exciting. This applies to leadership. We would be wise to remember Jesus’ words as we prepare for the commitment we made to lead.
Finally, John recognized Jesus and said to Peter, “It is the Lord.” As soon as Peter heard the good news, he jumped into the water.
Lesson for leaders: As a leader, we should want to get to Jesus as fast as we can. It’s ok for others to see how eager we are for fellowship with Jesus. Jump out of the boat and don’t give a thought to what others think. (And if you’re in a place where you are no longer feeling that kind of passion, there’s a way to revival. It can be discovered by humbly, honestly praying, reading His Word, and engaging with His faithful followers.)
The other disciples followed.
Lesson for leaders: When we are running toward Jesus with all of our being, we will be followed!
Jesus was already cooking a breakfast of fish.
Lesson for leaders: Jesus didn’t need the disciple’s catch. He was already cooking a breakfast of fish. And do you remember when He fed 5000 people with 5 loaves of bread and 2 fish? 5000! But in this story, Jesus invited His disciples to be part of something big. He drew the disciples into a partnership. Jesus doesn’t need you and me for accomplishing His plans but wow…what an honor we are given every time Jesus invites us to partner with Him. He provides us opportunities to fellowship with Him through serving and loving our neighbors. He opens doors where we can express our devotion to Him through loving the least, the last, and the lost.
Jesus invites us to spend time with Him. He invites His leaders to sit with Him, to feast upon His provision and to enjoy Him. That is our invitation today. Pray, read and study His Word and above all, enjoy Him.
Jump out of the boat!
Question to ponder:
Where do I have opportunities to lead?
debponders 