FollowingJesus.me

“When they landed, they saw a fire of burning coals there with fish on it, and some bread.” – John 21:9

I laugh every time I read this story. Some professional fishermen are out all night fishing, but with no fish to show for it. This “stranger” (they don’t yet know it is Jesus) yells from shore to try again and there is a “miraculous” catch, more fish than they can handle. Once they get to shore they find a campfire with “fish and some bread.” Where did Jesus get the fish? How does he have fish and the professional fishermen have none, until he provides? Did he bring his net or rod to the shore to snag breakfast? Did he reach into the water and catch them by hand? Did he call the fish and they jumped out of the water and onto the fire? Regardless of how it happened, the fishermen had nothing and Jesus had fish. Then, he provided fish for the fishermen!

Today is a reminder of God’s provision. How easy it is for me to slip back into thinking that I provide for my family. How easy to think that the company I work for provides for me. Neither of these is true. I do not provide for my family nor does my job provide for me. God is my provider and my family’s provider. God is my provision.

“So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you as well.” Matthew 6:31-33

Prayer:

Father, I thank you today that you are my provision. Thank you for seeing me, for loving me, and for taking care of me. Help me today to trust you. Help me to work hard today “as unto the Lord” for it is you that I am serving. As I work today may I be your light among my coworkers and may my attitude toward them be a reflection of your love and grace and provision toward me.