ONE MORE TIME

 

THIRD SUNDAY OF EASTER

John 21:1-19

 

          “I’m going fishing,” Simon Peter said.  “Us, too,” said the other disciples.

Biblical scholars and commentators have often speculated why they did so.  Some say they were returning to their old way of life now that Jesus was gone.  Some say that maybe they were simply hungry.  I have often thought that maybe Simon Peter and the others were simply feeling lost and confused.  So often when we feel that way we just turn back to what we know, to what is familiar.  It gives us some comfort and a distraction from the grief and worry we are experiencing.  How often have we, in the midst of a loss or terrible worry, have found some comfort or distraction in the simple things like working, cleaning the house, washing the car.  The disciples did what was familiar – and comforting  - to them.  They went fishing.

          Whatever the reason, this much we know:  they failed.  No fish.  Maybe it was just bad luck.  Maybe the fish weren’t biting.  Maybe they just couldn’t concentrate.  Maybe they weren’t as good at fishing as they thought.  Whatever the reason – they failed.  That is, until Jesus showed up and said, “One more time!”  And, so one more time they threw the nets over the side and …. well, another miracle! Just like the first time. (Luke 5:1-11)

          Fishing wasn’t the only thing they failed at.  They failed in their mission.  They had become students of the teacher.  Then they became witnesses to Jesus’ miracles, his compassion, his forgiveness, his healing and his divine and all-encompassing love.  Then they became part of His work.  But it came to a screeching halt when their teacher, their leader, their friend, their God died on the cross.  Their mission was done.  They failed.  That is, until Jesus showed up - again - and said “Follow me”  - again. (Matthew 4:18-22)  One more time.

          And as we know, a miracle happened.  Their mission didn’t end – it continued.  A Church was born and continues. We’re proof of that.

          And what about us?  Do we often feel as if we have failed in life?  I know I have – and do – often.  But Jesus says, “One more time.” And we keep going.

          Do we sometimes feel like we have failed in our mission of faith, as followers of Jesus?  I know I do – often.  But Jesus says, “One more time.”  Keep going.  Don’t give up.  I’m working with you and through you – even if it doesn’t feel like it sometimes.

          We fail.  Jesus appears.  He urges us “one more time.”

 

“Call Me Ishmael”