I usually look at Easter as the culmination event of Christ’s life on earth, but the record of His life didn’t end with the resurrection.
For the next 40 days, Jesus walked and talked with his followers. He appeared at various times, sometimes suddenly, sometimes less dramatically, but each one is significant.
My favorite story is of the disciples fishing. Peter decided, even after seeing the resurrected Jesus, to return to fishing, his former occupation. Some of the other disciples went with him. Of course, under the sovereignty of God, they caught nothing.
As morning dawned, they saw Jesus standing on the beach, but didn’t recognize Him. In His gentle way, Jesus said, “I see you haven’t caught any fish, have you? Throw your net on the right side of the boat, and you will get some.” And once again the nets were so full they couldn’t bring them in.
“It must be Jesus”, John cried. Hearing that, Peter jumped into the water and waded to shore. The others brought their boat in, towing the nets full of fish.
And when they got there, Jesus already had a fire going, and was already cooking fish and baking bread! He invited them to bring some of the fish they had caught to add to the meal.
So what is the point? Jesus didn’t need their fish. He already had plenty of fish. But He invited them to participate with Him. It is as though He was saying, “I can take care of you. Leave your nets and boats, and follow Me.”
Jesus is the same, yesterday, today and forever. Rather than fretting over our success in this world, He invites us to consider everything we do as an investment in His kingdom, trusting Him to take care of the stuff of the world.
Matthew 6:33 “But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”
Pastor John