“But when the morning had now come, Jesus stood on the shore; yet the disciples did not know that it was Jesus. Then Jesus said to them, ‘Children, have you any food? ‘ They answered Him, ‘No.’ And He said to them, ‘Cast the net on the right side of the boat, and you will find some.’ So they cast and now they were not able to draw it in because of the multitude of fish.” Luke 21:5-6
This passage continues. The disciples come ashore and eat breakfast with Jesus.
After breakfast Jesus speaks to Peter and restores him. For Peter had denied knowing Jesus.
It is interesting that this restoration happened after breakfast.
The word breakfast is simple: break and fast. After hours of sleep we wake and break the fast of not eating.
After days of shame and not being with Jesus, Peter was given his calling and restored relationship.
How does this apply?
There’s often places that are broken and need restoration.
It’s tempting to ignore the broken with busy.
To “smooth over” the hurt with excuse.
True relationship doesn’t grow when dishonesty is holding a broken place.
Often the easiest method of dealing with hurt (hurt feelings, harsh words, biting criticism, disappointment, selfishness, loss…)
isn’t the way that leads to healing.
Patterns of unhealthy behavior can come from many different sources.
However it is clear from God’s Word that we are not to continue to allow such things.
Instead we need to take the opportunity to break the unhealthy pattern and allow Christ to restore.
The first step is to admit there is an unhealthy behavior.
Second is to take it to Jesus and repent.
Thirdly, there needs to be a plan to promote good habits to replace the old one.
Fourth, hold fast, it is worth the effort to make the change but old habits die hard and it takes work to replace them.
What an encouragement that we are not alone.
Just as Peter needed a personal touch from the Lord so do we, and we don’t have to wait for breakfast, He’s ready any time of the day.
patientlyhopeful 