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" They knew it was the Lord " - John 21:12

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God's presence

How many of us have ever experienced the futility of work? We have done our best, or maybe we have put a lot of blood, sweat, and tears into our work but at the end of the day, we gain nothing. We become so desperate, tired, frustrated because none of our work pays off.

This is what Peter and the other disciples experienced when they had been fishing all night long but they caught nothing. We all know that Peter was a real professional when it comes to fishing. That is why he went fishing at night because experience has taught him that this was the most productive time to fish.

However, the scripture said that Peter and his other fellows didn't catch anything until the morning came. Their nets were as empty as when they had begun fishing. ( John 21:3)

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ, when we reflect on this passage, we know that God is so close to us and aware of our problems. Sadly, we are often oblivious to God's presence just as Peter and the other disciples who were not aware that Jesus was actually among them. They were in such a great desperate state that they couldn't recognise the risen Lord.

The next verse points out that Peter stated his problem and how Jesus miraculously did wonders. Take heed of John 21: 6. It says : " Then he said, " Throw out your net on the right-hand side of the boat, and you'll get some !". So, they did, and they couldn't haul in the net because there were so many fish in it." Here, we learn that Jesus is God of miracles. He can do the impossible things because He is the Lord God Almighty. Jesus could fill the empty fishing net to the bursting point, in the same way he can fill up our feeling of emptiness, and transform our lives into newly restored conditions.

In life, we may face a lot of problems that seem so overwhelming. However, we don't need to be so caught up in our problems that we become unaware of God's presence. When life gets tough, turn to Jesus for help. He is always there for us, working things out for our good. 

Finally, let us learn to recognise the Risen One, be more and more aware of His existence so that we can experience His loving presence through the ample food we have, good health, security, being forgiven and loved. Amen.

Reflection on John 21 : 1-13 by Linda Sutrisno

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