Today’s scripture: John 21:1-19 (NRSV) (The Message) (KJV) What might God be saying to me?
My thoughts (Cheryl Stonestreet):
When I talk to my friends about my dog, Rocky, some give me that look that parents of disruptive children are probably familiar with. It’s that “if that were my dog. . .” look.
Rocky is not well suited for just any household. He’s a rescue, and he’s mostly longhaired Chihuahua. He is also the most stubborn creature I’ve ever met. After spending any amount of time with him, it’s clear he was on the street, and his own boss, for quite a long while. I’ve had him for nearly two years, and he’s just now coming when called. Sometime in my life, I must have prayed for patience and that’s why this dog showed up.
Today’s story, of the assorted disciples and Jesus’ reappearance to them, reminds me a lot of Rocky. Left alone, Rocky starts to revert back to his old habits, the same way that the disciples went back to being fishermen after Jesus left them. I have to work with Rocky and remind him over and over again about his commands, the same way Jesus had to remind his disciples to, “Feed my sheep. . . tend my sheep. . . feed my sheep.” I know Rocky loves me and loves living in our household, but I also know he isn’t used to putting on his leash and having somebody else tell him where he can and can’t walk. But I believe he’s better off living with me than he was living on the street.
Sometimes it’s hard to be a disciple. I have to be reminded over and over what to do — feed my people, tend to my people. I want to do one thing, but am led to do another. Yes, I love God, but I am human. And many days, it comes down to a faithful decision. Where am I better off?
Thought for the day: Being a follower of Jesus can be difficult, but it has greater rewards.
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to get started, consider the guidelines on the How to Pray page.