May 5, 2010
John 21
Pastor Derek Floyd
When God Repeats Himself
Have you ever had a moment where you think that something feels familiar, or as if you’ve done it before?
As we read in John 21:1-6, the disciples probably had such a moment when, after fishing all night “again,” a voice called out from the beach: “have you caught any fish?” When the disciples responded “no,” Jesus told them to throw out their nets on the right side and there, they would find fish. The obedience to this request was immediate and the catch was huge. Three years before, Peter was asked to cast his nets one more time after fishing all night and his response was less than enthusiastic. Yet this day, Peter’s perspective was shaped by a lesson learned.
At times, God may take us back to certain circumstances – in many cases, back to a glorious life-changing moment – to show that He’s still God and that He’ll never walk away from the work He’s begun in us.
Three times Peter was asked (verses 15-17), “do you love me?” Remember that it was three times in which Peter denied that he even knew the Savior. We’ve all failed, but the good news is this: “go and feed my sheep” (verse 17). Jesus wanted Peter to know - and He wants you to know - that even in failure, there’s mercy and forgiveness to begin again.
Is God repeating Himself in your life today? If so, it’s no great mystery to be solved. A simple “yes, Lord” is all that’s required, then watch Him fill your boat with the abundance and overflow experienced only through a life of faith and obedience.
Did you know that Pastor Derek graduated from Bible College on his 41st birthday?
