John 21:1-14
Find a place and time free of distractions for the next 7-10 minutes. Sit comfortably and breathe deeply for a few seconds before you begin. If you haven’t read the Introduction to John’s Gospel, read it here.
Today we begin the epilogue to John’s Gospel. As you read John 21:1-14, try to imagine the scene from the perspective of either Peter (who betrayed Jesus three times) or Thomas (who doubted and then believed).
It seems that none of the disciples knows what to do next after encountering the risen Jesus. Beyond speaking peace over them and exhorting them to have faith, Jesus has given no further instructions, and the disciples are once again thrust into an “in-between” time of waiting.
Peter waits with his deep shame while Thomas waits with a newfound sense of belief. But everyone waits.
What kind of season are you in right now? Are you experiencing disappointment or shame? Are you experiencing peace right now? Are you in a time of waiting?
Speak openly and honestly with Jesus about this.
Read John 21:1-14 again taking note of anything different that stands out to you in this reading.
With Jesus, there is always provision on the other side of waiting. Sometimes Jesus leads us into an experience of abundant blessing and sometimes he simply invites to come to him so he can meet our most basic need, but after a time, he always provides. Even when life turns out differently than we hoped or imagined, Jesus invites us into his presence, and there we find all that we need.
How have you experienced the provision of Jesus in the past? Stop to talk with him as thoughts come to mind.
For the last few minutes of this meditation, sit quietly and imagine Jesus inviting you to come and experience his provision for you. Then simply listen for a while.
What do you sense Jesus is saying to you?
What do you intend to do about that?
Subscribe here to receive these guided meditations free by email Monday-Friday each week. If you find these meditations helpful, please forward them to a couple of friends.
The Everyday Jesus Follower’s Guide ebook can help you learn how to recognize God's voice, how to read and understand the Bible, how to develop deep spiritual friendships, and how to become the person you were meant to be. Use it alone, with a friend or in a small group.
