One of my favorite restoration stories of all time is described in John 21. Let’s face it, there are times when we are all in need of restoration: physical, spiritual, emotional, even financial.
The disciples of Jesus after His crucifixion seem to have suffered the loss of all things important to them. He was among them for 40 days after his resurrection, and appeared to many, including 500 at one time in Galilee.
One of His last appearances before He ascended back to glory to be seated at the right hand of the Father was at the Sea of Galilee. Peter, ever the leader, says to the others, “I’m going fishing!” 6 of the 11 said, “We’ll go with you.” I’ve often wondered about the other 4. Where were they? I imagine the fishermen were there: Peter, Andrew, James and John. Who were the 4 others? They missed a blessing.
They fished all night and caught nothing. Fishing was hard work! In the morning, tired, cold, hungry, and no doubt discouraged, as they neared home and the shore, someone stood on the shore and called, “Did you catch anything?” Nobody except John recognized Him, but when Peter did, he jumped in the water and swam to shore.
At His invitation, they let the nets down and caught 153 fish. Jesus says to them, “Bring some of the fish you have caught.” On shore, He had built a fire and cooked breakfast for them. Then He issues this glorious invitation, “Come and eat.” Think of it! The very Son of God, very God, with the glory of the resurrection still upon Him, takes the time to build a fire and cook, make breakfast for His friends, and He extends this wonderful invitation, “Come and eat!” What an invitation! How gracious! How beautiful! The disciples know Him, but they ask no questions.
After breakfast, Jesus speaks to Peter who had deserted and denied Him 3 times. He asks Peter, “Do you love me?” He asks it 3 times, and Peter answers “Yes” each time. Peter was a little aggrieved by the third time and says, “Lord, You know I love You.” And what was the Lord’s response? He had us in mind also that morning, as He instructs Peter, “Feed my lambs.” “Feed my sheep.” By this He shows all of us believers our role and true place in His plans. He makes us partners with Him in ministry, service and mission. We are taken into the confidence of God and given gifts for His glory.
As beautiful and memorable as that morning was, when He forgave, restored, and commissioned His men, there is a day more glorious, when all the family is gathered to the Marriage Supper of the Lamb. I’ll be there. Will you? The invitation is open. He calls all of us: “Come and Eat!”
Thoughts From the Garden 