40 Days of MiraclesSample

The Second Miraculous Catch of Fish at the Sea of Tiberias

“Love your enemies” is one of the most radical statements in all of human history. The man who taught it to His disciples also said, “...bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.” One of the people in this story of the miraculous catch was horribly mistreated by another. Peter had betrayed Jesus and was about to come face-to-face in a story that features two miracles. The first is obvious—professional fishermen who had returned empty-handed land a miraculous catch at the Lord’s command. The second miracle is reconciliation, where God's grace and mercy restore a broken relationship and vocation. When Peter sees the Lord’s provision and hospitality, surely the words, “I will make you a fisher of men,” must have echoed in his memory while another net is breaking with a record catch. As he hauled those nets to shore, did he wonder if the offer still stood? It did. Jesus restored him, and the Spirit used Peter, along with James and John, to found the Church.

Questions for Reflection

• Where do you need a miracle of provision?
• Where do you need a miracle of reconciliation?
• Can you see yourself running to Jesus for one or both, and why or why not?