Large Fish 153

[S] John 21:6-7, 11 --

 ⁶And He said to them, "Cast the net on the right-hand side of the boat and you will find a catch." So they cast, and then they were not able to haul it in because of the great number of fish.
 ⁷Therefore that disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, "It is the Lord." So when Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he put his outer garment on (for he was stripped for work), and threw himself into the sea
 ¹¹Simon Peter went up and drew the net to land, full of large fish, a hundred and fifty-three; and although there were so many, the net was not torn.

[O] This is almost a continuation from yesterday's devo on Mary's response to Jesus' calling.  Jesus yells out this somewhat of a strange instruction to Peter and John when they were returning without catching any fish.  And when John observed the amazing result, he quickly recognized the voice to be from Jesus the "Lord."  For me, understanding the background of their situation puts a more personal light in this scene.  Their leader they followed for three years just got crucified by the Romans, and trying to keep themselves hidden from the Romans, they were filled with fear.  And then they slip away to their old stomping grounds (fishing) but even that didn't turn out too well all night.  At that point of low times, they probably just gave a try to this stranger's suggestion and voila, they caught more fish than they can manage.  Could this have triggered their senses because they've seen so many of these situations when they were with Jesus where impossible and hopeless situations turns more than possible with much hope than anyone could ever dream of.  So, John recognizes Jesus and Peter jumps in the water to swim ashore to meet Him.  I can sense the level of energy here especially when there was negative energy.  I get so charged up about reading because it revives in me the posture of a disciple -- no matter what goes around me keep my head up and listen/look for the marks of Jesus and run to Him.  In verse 11, these blessed me: drew the net to land; full of large fish; 153; net was not torn (although so many).  How perfect of a picture for our small group ministry.  I'm so encouraged by this passage as it is God's personal vision for our ministry.

[A] Every day, don't get too deep in the planning and implementation of the small group, but have a larger heart to hear and look for how God is working in the midst of our ministry.  Keep following what Jesus guides me to do.

[P] Dear God, could this picture of an overflowing fish a vision for our small group ministry's future?  Could it be that You will bring across so many (153) people into your Kingdom that will require us to collaborate and yet we would be able to manage it (net not torn).  Thank You for this encouragement, and may you be glorified through our ministry.  In Jesus' name.  Amen.