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murshili-ii · 1 year

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Catholic Easter special: Western Sun

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We now return to our weekly posting schedule, and to non-Celtic content.

Our fourteenth Spring Vignettes piece celebrates Catholic Easter, which will be celebrated by Roman Catholics and many Protestants on April 9th this year, according to the Gregorian Calendar.

Before you read what the piece was intended to portray, share what it portrays to _you_. I’m just the artist; you’re the beholder.

Leave a comment.

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Other than that rabbits are a symbol of fecundity, life, and birth, there’s no particular symbolism in the body of this piece; it’s just an idyllic pastoral scene with some cute bun-buns.

Baby rabbits of some wild species ordinarily have little forehead-stars (or “milk-spots”) that fade as they mature. I thought it would be very neat if a litter of baby rabbits had gold, silver, and copper forehead-stars, instead of the usual white.

Are these special rabbits? Is their birth an omen of great events? Will they grow up to be extraordinary rabbits who do extraordinary things? We just don��t know.

Many rabbits make nests at ground-level using their own beard-fur, which female rabbits grow specially for the purpose. Rabbits normally leave their babies alone for much of the day and night, and return to nurse at dawn and dusk, when it’s safest. If you find unattended baby rabbits, it’s likely that they haven’t been abandoned; they’re just lying low until their mommy returns.

The frame is inspired by Roman architecture, especially the Roman Pantheon; which was built in antiquity as a pagan temple, but was repurposed as a Christian church later in its history.

If you look closely at the repeating pattern on the lintel, you’ll notice that I very cleverly integrated St. Peter’s Cross.

According to Christian tradition, St. Peter was one of the Twelve Apostles of Jesus of Nazareth, regarded by Christians as an incarnation of the God of Abraham and spiritual savior of humankind. Originally named Simon, he was renamed Cephas (כֵּיפָא Kepha), Aramaic for “Stone”, by Jesus; and this name was translated into Greek as Petros (Πέτρος), the Greek word for “Stone”.

Simon and his brother Andrew were fishermen when Jesus was preaching on the Sea of Galilee. According to the Gospel of Luke, Jesus demonstrated his divinity by calling up a miraculous catch of fish when the nets were coming up empty. Jesus called Simon and Andrew to be “fishers of men”; and they became his apostles, preaching his teachings to the people.

After returning to Rome at a time when Christians were being persecuted by pagan Emperor Nero, Peter was sentenced to crucifixion; and by some accounts, he asked not to be crucified in the same way as Jesus, as he thought himself unworthy. He was crucified upside-down on an inverted cross; and the inverted cross is known as St. Peter’s Cross to this day.

Roman Catholics regard Peter as the foremost of the apostles and the founder of the Roman See, to whom the Pope, as Bishop of Rome, is the direct successor as leader of Christianity.

#easter #western_easter #catholic_easter #rabbits #bunnies #st_peter #spring #springholidays #digitalart #vector #mosaic #collage #inkscape

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backtochrist · 2 years

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Miracle 37

Second miraculous catch of fish at the sea of Tiberius

Jesus stood on the shore; yet the disciples did not know that it was Jesus. Jesus said to them, “Children, do you have any fish?” They answered Him, “No.” He said to them, “Cast the net on the right side of the boat, and you will find some.” So they cast it, and now they were not able to haul it in, because of the quantity of fish. That disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, “It is the Lord!” When Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he put on his outer garment, for he was stripped for work, and threw himself into the sea. The other disciples came in the boat, dragging the net full of fish.... - John 21:4-8

#tumblr #faith #worship #backtochrist #grace #mercy #inspiration #jesus christ #christianity #love

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johnhardinsawyer · 23 days

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The Most Important Meal

John Sawyer

Bedford Presbyterian Church

4 / 7 / 24 – Second Sunday of Easter

John 21:1-19

“The Most Important Meal”[1]

(Wandering Heart – Week 8)

Monday, Wednesday, and Friday: Oatmeal, Toast, Grapefruit for Amy, and Coffee. Sometimes, the oatmeal has raisins, sometimes it has fresh fruit, sometimes we make a berry compote. Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday: Scrambled Eggs, Toast, and Coffee. Saturday: Fried-egg Sandwich with bacon on an English Muffin, Toast, and Coffee OR pancakes, or waffles, or fresh biscuits (with eggs) and Coffee. Oh, and coffee. . . did I mention coffee? Coffee is key!

So, what do you eat for breakfast? It’s the most important meal of the day. At least, this is what we’ve been told over the years. There are some people – there’s always ‘some people’ – who might disagree about the importance of breakfast, but many licensed dieticians agree that “starting your day with a nutritious breakfast kick-starts your metabolism and provides fuel for your body and brain. . . [those who skip breakfast] miss out on important nutrients that you won’t make up for later in the day. . .”[2] Just some food for thought. . . which is what breakfast turns out to be: food to fuel your mind and body through the first part of your day.

When I was growing up, breakfast was sometimes the only time our family was together for a meal all day. After breakfast, we would go to school and work and, inevitably, someone would have to work late, or have an evening meeting, or rehearsal, and we wouldn’t all four see each other until the next morning at the breakfast table. There were plenty of times when we came slumping in and slouched over our cereal, conversing in grunts and groans, but we were there, together.

There are some of you who did not grow up in this way, and I am sure you have your reasons for why you do what you do in the morning, but there is something special about eating breakfast with those you love – even if they are slurping and monosyllabic. I mean, at least you’re together.

Some of us were together, here, about eight weeks ago at the start of the Season of Lent when we began a series of sermons about Jesus’ friend and disciple, Peter. Eight weeks ago, we heard a story about a miraculous catch of fish and how Peter – who was known as Simon, at the time – went from skeptical to amazed.

This was at the start of Peter’s association with Jesus. In today’s story, we find one of the last in-person encounters that Peter has with Jesus. Today’s story takes place after the resurrection, and in today’s story, the disciples are not in Jerusalem anymore. They are back in the place where they were from, doing what they used to do before they met Jesus. They are fishing on the big lake known as the Sea of Tiberias or the Sea of Galilee. The text tells us that Peter, Thomas (the Thomas who doubted that Jesus had risen from the dead), Nathaniel, James, John, and two other disciples all go fishing. They fish all night but catch nothing.

Just after daybreak, Jesus stands on the beach but the disciples do not recognize him – maybe it’s the strange shadows that happen at dawn, maybe they just can’t see him clearly. Jesus calls out across the water, asking the fishermen if they have caught any fish and they say “no.” Then Jesus tells them to try a different approach – casting the net off of the other side of the boat. Suddenly, a big school of fish swims into their net and the net becomes so full that they are not able to haul it in. The text tells us that there are 153 large fish! (21:11). When this happens, a disciple, known only as “the one whom Jesus loved,” (John 21:7) says to Peter, “It is the Lord!”

By now in the Bible story, the risen Christ has already appeared to the disciples at least twice. But each appearance is new and exciting and Peter is excited enough to put on his swimsuit and do the 100 yard dash through the water arriving breathless on the shore.

This is the part of the story where breakfast begins. Jesus has lit a fire for cooking and he says, “Come and have breakfast.” (21:12)

Now, before we can continue, I want to take you back to a little incident that happened the night that Jesus was arrested. All four Gospels tell us that, on the night that Jesus was arrested, Peter denied that he knew Jesus at all. Peter said that he knew nothing about this Jesus person. When he was asked “Don’t you know Jesus? Aren’t you one of his friends? Haven’t I seen you with Jesus?” Peter said “No. No. No. I do not know him”– three times.[3]

And now, over breakfast, even though Peter has seen the risen Christ multiple times, now, the denials of Peter have not yet been addressed by Peter, Jesus, or anyone else – at least, not that we know of. Peter may have been refreshed by his sprint through the water, but I imagine that after a while, his shoulders start to slump a little over his meal. Some things just weigh us down, don’t they? We are told in Matthew, Mark, and Luke, that Peter weeps bitterly in shame the moment he realizes what he has done by denying Jesus. John’s Gospel says nothing about Peter weeping but I would venture a guess that Peter does not come to breakfast by the sea that morning without a heart that was at least a little heavy.

I don’t know about you, but when I do something wrong or say the wrong thing – and I come to find out that I have hurt someone or broken a trust – it hits me like a ton of bricks that I carry with me, until things can be made right, until apologies can be made and forgiveness given.

So Peter sits and eats breakfast with Jesus and the others and then Jesus turns to Peter and says, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?” (21:15). And then, again, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” (21:16). And then, a third time, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” (21:17). Three times he asks – just as many times as Peter denied Jesus. And each time Jesus asks, “Do you love me?” Peter says “Yes.” “Yes.” “Yes, Lord, I do love you.”

You should know that Jesus never mentions Peter’s denials. Instead, Jesus is ready to move on. Jesus is interested in a relationship with Peter – a relationship built on love and the right response to that love. “Do you love me?” “Yes.” “Then feed my lambs.” “Feed my sheep.” “Follow me.”

When the Gospel of John was written, the church was already sixty to eighty years old. These words, which Jesus spoke to Peter, would have also been heard by the members of the early church. They would have made the connection that Jesus, who was also known as “the good shepherd,” was passing on the care and feeding of his “flock” to Peter and the other disciples. So, when we read this passage all these years later, it is important to make the connection that, in this breakfast conversation with Peter, Jesus is talking about all of those who have heard his voice over the centuries and have followed him by offering their love and their service.

Jesus is talking about us, too. As a church, if we desire to care properly and faithfully for God’s people, our love for Jesus is the starting place of our care for the flock. Notice that I said “our love for Jesus is the starting place,” not “our love for the church as an institution, or a building, or a certain tradition that gives us meaning and identity but has nothing to do with Jesus.” Jesus asks Peter and asks us, “Do you love me more than these (21:15) – these other disciples, fellow travelers, fellow faithful people?” Because if you love me [Jesus] more than these, then your love for everyone else will come from the right place.” “Get your priorities straight,” Jesus is saying – “Love me first” – and he’s right.

When it comes to love, what – or who – are your priorities? As Presbyterians, we believe that any love that we have comes from God in the first place, so why not love God, first, and then have God’s love overflow into the rest of our relationships? “Do you love me?” Jesus asks. This is what Jesus is interested in. To love Jesus is to lay aside the things that hold us back and follow Jesus into the future God has prepared for us – not the past.

“Do you love me?” Jesus asks. “Because I love you.” And if you do love me, then follow where I lead into what comes next.”

As forgiven and beloved people, we still have a lot to do, a lot to learn, and a lot to give when it comes to God’s kingdom and the care of God’s people. This is the loving task set before us. . . before us, not behind us – in the future – not in the past. Thankfully, we are not left to our own devices.

This is one reason why Jesus offers himself to us in this most important meal; the Lord’s Supper – the meal in which our sins are forgiven, we are made new, and we are prepared, and strengthened by the Holy Spirit for what lies ahead. When Jesus is at the Table with his disciples, he knows what their failings are and yet he still offers himself to them. Sitting at breakfast with Peter in today’s story, he does this again. He does the same for us and to us – again, and again, and again.

Breakfast is a meal that is so full of promise – the promise of what is ahead. At the beginning of the day, the whole day is before us – the future is before us. Life is before us. It is the perfect time to begin again, to start anew, to forgive, to make things right – but, you know, if you think about it, every meal – every moment – of our lives is a perfect time for that.

Friends and followers of Jesus, why not start now? Why not start, anew? What happened yesterday is behind us. We are forgiven, loved, and freed. And it is time to move forward into the abundant life Jesus lived and died and rose again to give us. “Do you love me?” Jesus asks. May our answer always be, “Yes.” “Yes.” “Yes.”

In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

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[1] Part of this sermon is adapted from a sermon preached on April 18, 2010, entitled “Forgiveness for Breakfast” at Northminster Presbyterian Church in Macon, GA.

[2] https://www.piedmont.org/living-real-change/why-breakfast-is-the-most-important-meal-of-the-day.

[3] See Matthew 26:69-75, Mark 14:66-72, Luke 22:54-62, and John 18:15-18, 25-27.

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jaguar726 · 25 days

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Bring some of the fish you have just caught

Daily Gospel Reading – John 21:1-14 Jesus and the Miraculous Catch of Fish21 Afterward Jesus appeared again to his disciples, by the Sea of Galilee.[a] It happened this way: 2 Simon Peter, Thomas (also known as Didymus[b]), Nathanael from Cana in Galilee, the sons of Zebedee, and two other disciples were together. 3 “I’m going out to fish,” Simon Peter told them, and they said, “We’ll go with…

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#Daily #Gospel #John 21:1-14 #Reading

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pastorhogg · 4 months

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As the Day Ends

Evening Meditation on Luke 5:1-11 As the day draws to a close and we find moments of quiet reflection, Luke 5:1-11 offers a rich tapestry of spiritual insights to meditate upon. In this passage, we see a vivid portrayal of Jesus’ invitation to deeper faith and the transformation that follows an act of obedience. Simon Peter’s experience with the miraculous catch of fish is not just a testament…

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miajolensdevotion · 7 months

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John 21

* Jesus and the Miraculous Catch of Fish

- Who are those disciples that Jesus appeared to at the Sea of Galilee?

1. Simon Peter, Thomas (called “Twin”), Nathanael from Cana of Galilee, Zebedee’s sons, and two others of His disciples were together

- When Peter realised it was Jesus who has appeared again to them. Why do you think he put on his tunic or outer garment and jumped into the water to meet Jesus?

2. He tied his outer garment around him[d] (for he was stripped) and plunged into the sea. They were not far from land (about 100 yards[e] away). Simon Peter is excited to see Jesus.

- verse 14 said Jesus appeared for the third time to His disciple after He was raised from the dead. Where do you think Jesus is when He dos not appear to His disciple?

3. He could be with Mary, His Mother.

* Jesus Reinstates Peter

- Jesus asked Peter 3 times if he love Him, does it relate to the number of times Peter denied the Lord? Why or why not?

1. Yes. Because Jesus remembered what Peter did. But Jesus still forgives Peter.

- The sequence how Jesus answered Peter does it have to do in how we do ministry? Why or why not?

2. Yes. Because we should be fulfilled in our ministry with Jesus. We should abide in our works and our faith in Him.

What verse made an impact to you today?

3. The verse made an impact to me is v18 “I assure you: When you were young, you would tie your belt and walk wherever you wanted. But when you grow old, you will stretch out your hands and someone else will tie you and carry you where you don’t want to go.” v19 He said this to signify by what kind of death he would glorify God.[j] After saying this, He told him, “Follow Me!”.

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pooma-bible · 8 months

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Savita Manwani

Praise the Lord! Welcome to today’s word ministration. Stay tuned and be blessed.

Let us Pray: Gracious Father I thank you for the breath of life you have given us and kept us alive. Thank you for giving us this time and opportunity to share your word. May you be glorified in and through our lives. In Jesus' name we pray. Amen.

TOPIC - FEED MY LAMBS

So when they had eaten breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon, son of Jonah, do you love Me more than these?” He said to Him, “Yes, Lord; You know that I love You.” He said to him, “Feed My lambs (John 21:15).

Peter was a fisherman. After the first miraculous draught of fishes, the Lord had said, "Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men" (Matt. 4:19). Peter’s work on earth was made the symbol of his heavenly calling. After the second miraculous draught of fishes, in the days preceding the ascension, our Lord no longer calls Peter a fisherman, but a shepherd.

There is a deep meaning in the change. One great point of difference between the fisherman and the shepherd is, that while the former catches what he has neither reared nor fed, and only seeks what is full-grown, casting away all the little fish out of his net back into the sea, the shepherd directs his special attention to the young and the feeble; on his care for the lambs all his hope depends.

The type of the fisherman gave no place for the Master to give special charge concerning the children of His church. The shepherd’s calling at once suggested the words, Feed My lambs, and sets forth the deep importance and the blessed reward of giving a first place to the little ones of the flock.

Peter, and Christ’s ministers, were not only to feed the sheep – the prosperity of the church would specially depend upon their feeding the lambs. What was said to them is very specially applicable to parents as under-shepherds, who each have their little flock of lambs to keep and rear for the Master.

Christ’s commission to His church through Peter shows the place the little ones have in His heart, and teaches us to think of the weakness, the value, the need, and the hope of our children.

1. Dependent Lambs:

Feed My lambs, Jesus says, and reminds us of the feebleness of our children and their religious life. The Lord was just about to ascend the throne; one of His last words is, Care for the lambs. The sheep is a weak and helpless animal; how much more the little lamb! It cannot care for itself.

The Master would have every minister and every parent think much how utterly dependent the child is on the care of those to whom it is entrusted. It cannot choose the company under whose influence it comes. It knows not yet to choose between good and evil. It knows nothing of the importance of little words or deeds, of forming habits, of sowing good or bad seed, of yielding itself to the world or God.

All depends upon its surroundings: parents especially have the children in their power. What a solemn responsibility to lead and nourish them carefully, to feed them, not with the husks of this world’s thoughts and pleasures, but with food convenient, the milk for babes which our Father has provided, to lead them only in the green pastures!

2. Future Sheep:

Feed My lambs: The words remind us of the high value of the little ones. In the lambs the shepherd sees the possibilities of the future: as the lambs, so the coming flock. The church of the next generation, the servants with whom, in but a few years’ time, Jesus has to do His work of converting and saving and blessing men, are the children of today.

How little we have understood or heeded the voice, Feed the lambs. He says more, He says, "Feed My lambs," and also "of such is the kingdom" (Matt. 19:14). Not only for what they are to become, but for what they already are in their childlike simplicity and heavenliness, He loves them and counts them of great worth.

For the lesson they continually have to teach grown-up people, for all the influence they exert in making their parents and elders gentle and humble and trustful, for all the blessings they bring to those who receive them in the name of Jesus, they are to Him of unspeakable worth, the most beautiful part of His flock.

Let us try to catch His spirit as He cries, "Feed My lambs." Oh, let us learn to look upon our children in the light in which Jesus looks upon them! Let us pray for the Holy Spirit to make the familiar words, Jesus’ lambs, a deep spiritual reality to us, until our hearts tremble at the thought. Our little ones are His lambs: we are daily to feed them as such, that they may grow up as the sheep of His pasture.

3. Spiritual Nourishment:

Feed My lambs: the children’s great need is here set before us. Food is the condition of growth. Food is something received from without, to be assimilated and taken up into our very life. The body has its food from the visible world. The mind is nourished by the thoughts that enter it. The spirit feeds, through the mind, on the thoughts, the words of God.

The little ones cannot seek pasture for themselves; Christ looks to parents to bring to them day by day, not a chapter of the Bible just read over, and in most cases beyond their comprehension, but some of the thoughts of Divine wisdom and love, without which the soul cannot possibly grow.

Not less carefully than the mother studies daily how to let the child have something to eat, and what it is to eat, how she has to day by day feed each lamb entrusted to her care. The one desire and aim must be to rear it for Him. The consecration of the child to the Lord must be the chief thing in its life. The idea of its being His, and growing up entirely and alone for Him, the absorbing desire, this will make the duty easy.

4. Love for Jesus:

Feed My lambs: the words tell the provision Christ has made for His feeble ones. To whom were the words spoken? To one of whom the question had been asked, "Do you love Me?" and who had answered, "Yes, Lord, You know that I love You."

It is only one who is inspired by love to Jesus who can truly take charge of the lambs. This is the examination of fitness for the duty of parent and shepherd of the lambs, "Do you love Me?" This is the provision Jesus has made for the lambs: true love to Jesus can do the work.

Let every parent who longs to know how he can obtain the needed qualification for his work, give in his name for this examination. Let Jesus search your heart – once, twice, a third time – until the remembrance of past unfaithfulness brings tears, and the answer comes, Lord, You know all things, You know that I do love You.

Alas, it is this that is the blight of so many a Christian home – the conscious, fervent, and confessed love of Jesus is wanting. Nothing influences a childlike love: the warmth of a holy love to Jesus will make itself felt. There may be a great deal of religion, and of teaching, and of praying; it is only love that will conquer.

Love to Jesus will lead to obey Him very carefully, to walk with Him very closely, to trust Him very heartily. Love to Jesus will make the desire to please Him very strong, and the charge He gives us to keep very precious. Love to Jesus will make our testimony of Him very personal. The food with which we feed the lambs will have the warmth of a Divine love about it.

Jesus wants parents who love Him, who love Him with their whole heart and strength: this is the provision He has thought out for His little lambs.

The religion of Jesus is a religion of love. Of the Father it is said, "God is love" (1 John 4:8). Jesus Himself is the gift of a love that passes knowledge. His own life and work is one of love, love stronger than death.

When the Holy Spirit comes to us He sheds abroad in our hearts the love of God. Our whole relation to the Divine is to be one of love. And our relation as parents and children was meant to be one of love. It was to restore this that Jesus came.

And He does it by calling parents to love Himself, and then receiving the little ones in His name, for His sake, and in the fervor of His love, to take charge of them.

The love of earth He purifies and elevates by the love of heaven. And the home is consecrated by the light of Jesus’ love resting on the children, and the power of His love dwelling in the parents, and the whole of education being made a work of love for Him.

5 A Blessed Calling:

Christian parents, see and accept your blessed calling; you are the shepherds of the Divine love to tend and feed the lambs. In His church, the Chief Shepherd has many shepherds to care for the flock, but none who can so care for the lambs as the parents.

"He makes Him families like a flock" (Psa. 107:41); it is to parental love, inspired and sanctified by redeeming love, that Jesus looks for the building up of His church. Let us pray very earnestly to have, in the first place, our eyes opened to see things as Jesus sees them, to realize by the Holy Spirit what He feels for our little ones, what He expects of us and is ready to do for us in giving us wisdom and strength.

Feed My lambs: When this word is made the law of a parent’s duty, what gentleness and love will it inspire, what heavenly hope, what faithful, watchful care, and what an unceasing life of faith in the love and grace and blessing of Jesus on our home! Let us often wait for the voice to say to us, "Love Me? Feed My lambs."

Allow me to end here. God bless you all!

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jdgo51 · 9 months

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DAILY DEVOTIONAL FOR AUGUST 4, 2023

Only Forgiveness

By Cole Beckloff (South Dakota, USA)

READ JOHN 21:15-17

"'"Peter replied, “Man, I don’t know what you’re talking about!” Just as he was speaking, the rooster crowed."'

LUKE 22:60 (NIV)

"Every day as I climb out of bed, I am troubled with thoughts like these: Remember when you insulted that person? Remember when you skipped your devotional time? Can’t you just try to do something right today? This spiritual battle rages across my mind most days.

But I take courage from the story of Jesus appearing to his disciples after his resurrection. He had breakfast with them after a miraculous catch of fish, and after breakfast, Jesus asked Peter three times if Peter loved him. Jesus used the repetition to remind Peter of the night when he denied Jesus three times. However, Jesus wasn’t condemning or shaming Peter. He was telling Peter, “Listen, I forgive you! Now go and tell others of my love.”

Peter thought he had failed miserably, but this wasn’t the end for him. By accepting Jesus’ unending forgiveness, he was able to reach thousands with the same grace that had turned his life around.

I still struggle with keeping my mind fixed on the Lord’s redeeming love. Too often I am tempted to focus on my needs and wants instead of on the work of Christ. But God constantly lifts me up from my failures to shape me into a more faithful Christ-follower." We get very bound up with our own personal issues. All we must do is call on the Lord in those instances for assistance. Then your power is multiplied exponentially. Keep Him close and all will be good.

TODAY'S PRAYER

"Loving Father, thank you for your forgiveness and for helping us to live the way of Christ." Amen.

John 21:15-17

"'15 When they finished eating, Jesus asked Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?” Simon replied, “Yes, Lord, you know I love you.” Jesus said to him, “Feed my lambs.” 16 Jesus asked a second time, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” Simon replied, “Yes, Lord, you know I love you.” Jesus said to him, “Take care of my sheep.” 17 He asked a third time, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” Peter was sad that Jesus asked him a third time, “Do you love me?” He replied, “Lord, you know everything; you know I love you.” Jesus said to him, “Feed my sheep"' Jesus repetitively asks "do you love me" to Peter and each ask brought about the "feed my sheep" phrase. To show our love we will speak with people to know how they can Love the Lord. No matter how monotonous it may seem; continue to follow this pattern. Bless you! Joe

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yhwhrulz777 · 10 months

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Wayside Chapel Daily Devotional 14th July 2023

July 14

John 21:15-17 15When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, "Simon son of John, do you truly love me more than these?" "Yes, Lord," he said, "you know that I love you." Jesus said, "Feed my lambs." 16Again Jesus said, "Simon son of John, do you truly love me?" He answered, "Yes, Lord, you know that I love you." Jesus said, "Take care of my sheep." 17The third time he said to him, "Simon son of John, do you love me?" Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, "Do you love me?" He said, "Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you." Jesus said, "Feed my sheep.

When Jesus called Peter from his life of fishing, He caused the disciples to obtain a miraculous catch of fish. Peter realized he was in the presence of a holy man and asked Jesus to go away from him. Peter was convicted. Instead of leaving, Jesus called Peter to be His disciple.

After the resurrection Jesus told the disciples to wait in Galilee. While they were waiting, Peter took the boat out to fish. Jesus repeated that miracle of when He first called Peter to discipleship. Perhaps He was reminding Peter of His original commitment. Though Jesus was no longer daily walking with them, Peter could still follow Him daily.

After they ate the breakfast that Jesus had prepared for them, He asked Peter if he loved Him more than these. What did Jesus mean by "these?" Perhaps He meant the boat, nets, and catches of fish - the life of a fisherman. Peter may have been considering going back to his old life. That would be much simpler than the road of discipleship.

Perhaps by "these" Jesus meant the other disciples. Remember that at one time Peter had boldly declared that even if everyone else deserted Jesus, he would never do so. I prefer this meaning. Peter's cockiness is brought to a realization that he can no longer make comparisons. In the end he must simply say, "You know all things; you know that I love you." If you have love for me, then take care of and feed my sheep. That was His call. He was no longer a fisherman of fish. He was a witness of the words, miracles, and resurrection of Jesus. God's sheep needed Peter to feed them with those truths.

Meditation: If Jesus asked you, "Do you love me?" what would be your response?

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seekfirst-community · 1 year

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Meditation: Why didn't the apostles immediately recognize the Lord when he greeted them at the Sea of Tiberias? John gives us a clue. He states that Peter had decided to return to his home district of Galilee, very likely so he could resume his fishing career. Peter was discouraged and didn't know what to do after the tragedy of Jesus' death! He went back to his previous career out of despair and uncertainty. The other apostles followed him back to Galilee.

The gift of faith opens our eyes to recognize the risen Lord Jesus in our midst

When was the last time Peter was commanded to let down his net after a futile night of fishing? It was at the beginning of Jesus' ministry in Galilee when the Lord dramatically approached Peter in his fishing boat after a futile night of fishing and commanded him to lower his nets (see Luke 5:4-11). After the miraculous catch, Jesus told Peter that he would be 'catching people" for the kingdom of God. Now Jesus repeats the same miracle. John, the beloved disciple, is the first to recognize the Lord. Peter impulsively leaps from the boat and runs to the Lord. Do you run to the Lord when you meet setbacks, disappointments, or trials? The Lord is ever ready to renew us in faith and to give us fresh hope in his promises.

Do you recognize the presence of the Risen Lord in your life?

Skeptics who disbelieve the resurrection say the disciples only saw a vision of Jesus. The Gospel accounts, however, give us a vivid picture of the reality of the resurrection. Jesus went out of his way to offer his disciples various proofs of his resurrection - that he is real and true flesh, not just a spirit or ghost. In his third appearance to the apostles, after Jesus performed the miraculous catch of fish, he prepared a breakfast and ate with them. John's prompt recognition of the Master - It is the Lord! and Peter's immediate response to run to the Lord - stands in sharp contrast to Peter's previous denial of his Master during the night of Jesus' arrest. The Lord Jesus reveals himself to each of us as we open our hearts to hear his word. Do you recognize the Lord's presence in your life and do you accept his word with faith and trust?

"Lord Jesus, you are the Resurrection and the Life. Increase my faith in the power of your resurrection and in the truth that you are truly alive! May I never doubt your life-giving word nor stray from your presence."

a charcoal grilling

“When they landed, they saw a charcoal fire.” —John 21:9

When Simon Peter denied Jesus three times, he was standing beside “a charcoal fire” (Jn 18:18). After meeting the risen Jesus several times, Simon Peter then decided to return to his pre-Jesus career of commercial fishing (Jn 21:3), in effect denying Jesus’ call to be a fisher of men (Lk 5:10).

Standing near the charcoal fire, Jesus asked Simon three times, “Do you love Me?” In so doing, Jesus also took him back to the scene of his three denials. Jesus allowed Simon Peter to undo his denials and replace them with professions of love. Jesus restored St. Peter and cleansed him of guilt and shame.

When Simon’s denials were escalating, Jesus decided to intervene. Jesus had once told Simon clearly that if he knew his Master’s wishes, but did not prepare to carry them out, he would be severely punished and ranked “among those undeserving of trust” (Lk 12:46-47). However, Jesus came to Simon Peter not with the promised punishment but with compassion. Rather than ranking Simon among the untrustworthy, Jesus instead restored Peter’s commission in the presence of several other apostles (Jn 21:15-17), trusting him to feed His people with the Gospel.

Where is the “charcoal fire” in your life? Are you hiding your shame and guilt from Jesus? Open your heart to Jesus and allow Him into the worst areas of your life. He is gentle, compassionate, and “rich in mercy” (Eph 2:4). He wants to restore, cleanse, and empower you to help Him build His kingdom.

Prayer: Jesus, why do I hide from You? I open wide my life to You. Burn away my unworthiness and consume me in Your love.

Promise: “There is no salvation in anyone else, for there is no other name in the whole world given to men by which we are to be saved.” —Acts 4:12

Praise: Praise the risen Jesus, Whose name is above every other name!

Reference: (This teaching was submitted by a member of our editorial team.)

Rescript: "In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat for the publication One Bread, One Body covering the time period from April 1, 2023 through May 31, 2023. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio September 21,, 2022"

The Nihil Obstat ("Permission to Publish") is a declaration that a book or pamphlet is considered to be free of doctrinal or moral error. It is not implied that those who have granted the Nihil Obstat agree with the contents, opinions, or statements

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murshili-ii · 1 year

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Orthodox Easter special: Eastern Sun

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Our fifteenth Spring Vignettes piece celebrates Orthodox Easter, which will be celebrated by Eastern Orthodox and Oriental Orthodox Christians on April 16th this year (the Gregorian date), in accordance with the Julian Calendar.

Before you read what the piece was intended to portray, share what it portrays to _you_. I’m just the artist; you’re the beholder.

Leave a comment.

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Other than that eggs are a symbol of life and rebirth, there’s no particular symbolism in the body of this piece; it’s just an idyllic pastoral scene with some cute cluck-clucks.

The ornate designs on the eggs, along with their red color, is inspired by an Eastern Christian tradition of dying eggs red for easter, and later, decorating them with elaborate designs. I thought it would be very neat if a clutch of eggs had gold, silver, and copper designs on them. Did someone manage to paint and gild three viable eggs, without interrupting their incubation? Does this hen somehow lay eggs naturally decorated with beautiful metallic designs? We just don’t know.

The trees in the background are inspired by the Mediterranean cypress (Cupressus sempervirens “ever-green”), a tall and striking coniferous tree that punctuates the landscape throughout the Mediterranean region. Many ancient cypresses have been venerated as sacred trees. The Cypress of Abarkuh is likely more than four thousand years old.

The frame is inspired by Greek architecture, especially the Parthenon; which was built in antiquity as a pagan temple, but was repurposed as a Christian church later in its history.

If you look closely at the repeating pattern on the lintel, you’ll notice that I very cleverly integrated St. Andrew’s Cross.

According to Christian tradition, St. Andrew was one of the Twelve Apostles of Jesus of Nazareth, regarded by Christians as an incarnation of the God of Abraham and spiritual savior of humankind. Andrew doesn’t seem to have had a Hebrew name; only a Greek name, Andréās (��νδρέᾱς); which implies that his family had assimilated into Greek society to a considerable extent.

Andrew and his brother Simon (later known as Cephas and Peter) were fishermen when Jesus was preaching on the Sea of Galilee. According to the Gospel of Luke, Jesus demonstrated his divinity by calling up a miraculous catch of fish when the nets were coming up empty. Jesus called Andrew and Simon to be “fishers of men”; and they became his apostles, preaching his teachings to the people.

After preaching in Achaea, Greece, and convincing many people to abandon the worship of the pagan gods, Andrew was sentenced to crucifixion by the Roman governor Aegeas; and by some accounts, he asked not to be crucified in the same way as Jesus, as he thought himself unworthy. He was crucified on a diagonal, decussate, or saltire cross; and the saltire cross is known as St. Andrew’s Cross to this day.

According to the Gospel of John, Andrew recognized Jesus as the savior first, and introduced him to his brother Simon (later known as Cephas and Peter). Orthodox Christians call Andrew “the First-Called”, and regard him as the predecessor to the Patriarch of Constantinople as “first among equals” and leader of Christianity.

#easter #eastern_easter #orthodox_easter #chickens #eggs #hen #chicks #st_andrew #spring #springholidays #digitalart #vector #mosaic #collage #inkscape

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betweenandbeloved · 1 year

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Church of the Primacy of St. Peter

Following his death and resurrection, Jesus appeared to the disciples a recorded eight times throughout the Gospels. His first appearance was to Mary Magdalene (Mark 16:9) and his sixth appearance was to the seven disciples, including Peter, where they shared breakfast on the beach (John 21).

The Church of the Primacy of St. Peter is located close to Capernaum, where Jesus centered a lot of his ministry in Galilee. It is also a large fishing area and since the disciples were fishermen by trade, it makes sense they would have come home to this area following Jesus’ death. That makes this location a very likely place for this part of the Jesus story.

Pictured: The Church of St. Peter’s Primacy looking over the Sea of Galilee

John chapter 21 has two parts: Jesus and the miraculous catch of fish (John 21:1-14) where the disciples go out to fish, catch nothing, and Jesus says “Throw your net on the right side of the boat and you will find some (vs. 6).” The disciples then join Jesus for breakfast on the beach (vs. 12).

The second part of this story is when Jesus reinstates Peter, after having denied him three times before his death (John 21:15-25)

“When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, ‘Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?’ ‘Yes, Lord,’ he said, ‘you know that I love you.’ Jesus said, ‘Feed my lambs.’ Again Jesus said, ‘Simon son of John, do you love me?’ He answered, ‘Yes, Lord, you know that I love you.’ Jesus said, ‘Take care of my sheep.’ The third time he said to him, ‘Simon son of John, do you love me?’ Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, ‘Do you love me?’ He said, ‘Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you.’ Jesus said, ‘Feed my sheep. Very truly I tell you, when you were younger you dressed yourself and went where you wanted; but when you are old you will stretch out your hands, and someone else will dress you and lead you where you do not want to go.’ Jesus said this to indicate the kind of death by which Peter would glorify God. Then he said to him, ‘Follow me!’” - John 21:15-22

At this point in the story of Jesus, Jesus hands over leadership to Peter. Jesus prophesied how Peter would end up dying a sacrificial death and in doing so, removed the guilt Peter felt having denied Jesus. Essentially Jesus is saying to Peter “this is not the end but just the beginning.”

Pictured: a statue commemorating Peter’s commissioning

The church is built overtop of the rocks where this story takes place. It’s believed that on these rocks, Jesus cooked the fish the disciples caught and served them breakfast before commissioning Peter to continue his ministry.

Pictured: the inside of the church with the rock believed to be the location of the breakfast on the beach appearance story.

Since the church is right on the Sea of Galilee, we were able to spend some time in devotion and playing in the water.

Pictured: (left) my feet in the Sea of Galilee - the water was so clear! (right) Jon and I at the edge of the water.

Jonathan added that it was really cool to see this place where Peter was commissioned. The text of “feed my sheep” is often used as an ordination text and as a group with a lot of pastors we were reminded of this. By standing at a different angle near the statue, it was almost as if Jesus was commissioning us as well.

#holyland2023 #holy land #pilgrimage #travel #lutheran #elca #adventure #sea of Galilee #Christian

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carolap53 · 2 years

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John 21Jesus and the Miraculous Catch of Fish

21 Afterward Jesus appeared again to his disciples, by the Sea of Galilee. It happened this way: 2 Simon Peter, Thomas (also known as Didymus), Nathanael from Cana in Galilee, the sons of Zebedee, and two other disciples were together. 3 “I’m going out to fish,” Simon Peter told them, and they said, “We’ll go with you.” So they went out and got into the boat, but that night they caught nothing.

4 Early in the morning, Jesus stood on the shore, but the disciples did not realize that it was Jesus.

5 He called out to them, “Friends, haven’t you any fish?”

“No,” they answered.

6 He said, “Throw your net on the right side of the boat and you will find some.” When they did, they were unable to haul the net in because of the large number of fish.

7 Then the disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, “It is the Lord!” As soon as Simon Peter heard him say, “It is the Lord,” he wrapped his outer garment around him (for he had taken it off) and jumped into the water. 8 The other disciples followed in the boat, towing the net full of fish, for they were not far from shore, about a hundred yards. 9 When they landed, they saw a fire of burning coals there with fish on it, and some bread.

10 Jesus said to them, “Bring some of the fish you have just caught.” 11 So Simon Peter climbed back into the boat and dragged the net ashore. It was full of large fish, 153, but even with so many the net was not torn. 12 Jesus said to them, “Come and have breakfast.” None of the disciples dared ask him, “Who are you?” They knew it was the Lord. 13 Jesus came, took the bread and gave it to them, and did the same with the fish. 14 This was now the third time Jesus appeared to his disciples after he was raised from the dead.

Jesus Reinstates Peter

15 When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?”

“Yes, Lord,” he said, “you know that I love you.”

Jesus said, “Feed my lambs.”

16 Again Jesus said, “Simon son of John, do you love me?”

He answered, “Yes, Lord, you know that I love you.”

Jesus said, “Take care of my sheep.”

17 The third time he said to him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?”

Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, “Do you love me?” He said, “Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you.”

Jesus said, “Feed my sheep. 18 Very truly I tell you, when you were younger you dressed yourself and went where you wanted; but when you are old you will stretch out your hands, and someone else will dress you and lead you where you do not want to go.” 19 Jesus said this to indicate the kind of death by which Peter would glorify God. Then he said to him, “Follow me!”

20 Peter turned and saw that the disciple whom Jesus loved was following them. (This was the one who had leaned back against Jesus at the supper and had said, “Lord, who is going to betray you?”) 21 When Peter saw him, he asked, “Lord, what about him?”

22 Jesus answered, “If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you? You must follow me.” 23 Because of this, the rumor spread among the believers that this disciple would not die. But Jesus did not say that he would not die; he only said, “If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you?”

24 This is the disciple who testifies to these things and who wrote them down. We know that his testimony is true.

25 Jesus did many other things as well. If every one of them were written down, I suppose that even the whole world would not have room for the books that would be written.

New International Version

(NIV)

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johnhardinsawyer · 2 months

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"Jesus Sought Me"

John Sawyer

Bedford Presbyterian Church

2 / 18 / 24 – First Sunday in Lent

Psalm 25:1-10

Luke 5:1-11

“Jesus Sought Me”

(Wandering Heart – Week 1)

[Miming, looking at a menu and talking to a server.] “Ummmm. . . Yes. . . Ummmm. . . Hi. . . Peter, is it? Yes, I think I’ll start with the Mango Tilapia Ceviche, and then have the Grilled Mango Tilapia, followed by the Blackened Mango Tilapia, followed by the Fried Mango Tilapia, and I think I’ll finish with some Mango Tilapia Ice Cream. . . Excuse me? Oh, yes. . . it is a lot of Tilapia. But, from the looks of things, Peter, you have a lot of Tilapia.”

If you ever go to Galilee, you simply must try the Tilapia. You see, in the large freshwater lake that is commonly called the Sea of Galilee, you can still catch and eat the same kind of fish that ancient fishermen – like Peter, and James, and John – caught. This particular species of fish – Sarotherodon galilaeus – is known as “Mango Tilapia” or “Galilee Tilapia.” It’s also commonly known as “St. Peter’s Fish.”[1]

In today’s story from the Gospel of Luke, we heard about a surprisingly huge catch of fish in the waters of the Sea of Galilee. Chances are, most of the fish in the story – caught in the bulging nets, being pulled into the boats and onto the shore by straining fishermen – are Tilapia, a kind of fish that has gained popularity in the United States and other places over the past twenty years or so. In our own country, many have come to see the value of this fish that has been eaten across the Middle East and Africa for thousands of years. Tilapia is a fairly sturdy fish, easy to prepare, and mild tasting. We had some Tilapia at our house this past week. It was delicious!

Now, some of you might be disappointed to hear that today’s sermon is not going to be all about Tilapia. I just wanted to give some context so that when you hear about the fish in the story, you can kind of get a sense of what I’m talking about.

And, speaking of context, in the Gospels of Matthew and Mark, when Jesus arrives in the land of Galilee, one of the first stories that is told is how he walks along the Sea of Galilee and calls to two sets of fishermen brothers: Simon and Andrew, James and John. And he says something to the effect of, “Follow me, and I will make you fish for people.”[2] And, as the scriptures tell us, immediately, they leave their nets (homes, families, livelihoods) and follow him. It all happens so fast. There is no time for questions and answers, like “So, what exactly are we getting into, here?” or “If we follow you, is there a dental plan?”

In today’s reading from the Gospel of Luke, though, before anyone leaves anything to follow Jesus, there is a miraculous catch of fish and this is the very thing that seems to seal the deal for Simon (who will later come to be known as Peter). Just so you know, when you hear me say “Simon” or “Peter” or “Simon Peter,” I am talking about the same person.

During the Season of Lent, we are going to be spending some time with Peter – following him on his journey with Jesus. In the Gospel of Luke, the immediacy of Matthew and Mark moves at a slower pace. The stories in Luke seem to take more time. For example, in Luke, leading up today’s story, Jesus has already spent some quality time with Peter. It all starts on a Sabbath day in the synagogue in Peter’s hometown of Capernaum, where Jesus heals a man with an unclean spirit. Then, after the service in the synagogue, Jesus goes a few doors away to Simon Peter’s house and heals Simon’s mother-in-law of a high fever. Pretty soon – that very day – a crowd of people descends upon Peter’s house, all of them seeking to be healed by Jesus.

At the beginning of today’s reading, Jesus is being followed by a large crowd – likely, many of the people from Peter’s house – and so he borrows Simon Peter’s boat, pushes out into the water, and teaches the crowd who has gathered on the shore. I imagine the sound of his voice bouncing off of the water and being pushed toward the shore on the breeze.

As the story goes, when Jesus had finished speaking, he says to Simon, “Put out into the deep water and let down your nets for a catch.” (Luke 5:4) Simon replies with what will become a familiar tone of voice throughout the Gospels. Out of all of the disciples, I think Peter is a lot like people we might know – well-meaning people who just have some questions about. . . well. . . everything. So, when Jesus asks Peter to steer the boat out into deeper water Peter says, as Eugene Peterson translates, “Master, we’ve been fishing hard all night and haven’t caught even a minnow. But if you say so, I’ll let out the nets.”[3] I wonder, how often do you and I – like Peter – begrudgingly do a “favor” for Jesus when we have to go out of our way to be kind or do something that we find unpleasant? We know it won’t work – whatever it is that Jesus has planned – but we reluctantly go along with it and, wouldn’t you know it: all of a sudden, Jesus surprises us.

You heard the story: Simon Peter goes into deeper water, lets down the nets, and suddenly they catch so many fish that the nets begin to break. They have to call their partners, James and John over with another boat to help them. There are so many fish that both boats are filled – filled so full that the boats begin to sink. That’s a lot of Tilapia!

It is Peter’s response here that catches my attention. He goes from being somewhat skeptical to being completely convinced. It is interesting, though, that while he might be convinced – after all that he has seen – that Jesus is a powerful, perhaps divine, person, Peter is also convinced that he, himself, is not worthy to be in Jesus’ presence. Again, as Eugene Peterson translates, Peter says, “Master, leave. I’m a sinner and can’t handle this holiness. Leave me to myself.”[4] Can you imagine asking Jesus to go away from you? This is what people with unclean spirits do in the Bible when they meet Jesus. Before Jesus heals the man in the synagogue on the Sabbath day, he yells, “Let us alone, Jesus!” (4:34) Then, there’s the man we talked about a few weeks ago, who lived among the tombs and shrieked from the mountaintops who says something similar. (8:28)

Peter’s first inclination is to separate himself from Jesus but Jesus’ first inclination – after spending some quality time with Peter, learning what kind of person Peter is (warts and doubts and all) – Jesus says, “There is nothing to fear.” (5:10). And then he invites Peter to be part of a new and Holy venture: gathering people for the kingdom of God. The original language, here, can be translated “to capture alive” or to win people over (for God’s kingdom).”[5] “There is nothing to fear,” Jesus says. I imagine Jesus saying, “You need not be afraid of me, Simon (who will one day be called Peter). . . Do not be afraid of me or of yourself or whatever shortcomings you think you may have. I have sought you, I am pursuing you, I am calling you for a Holy purpose. Follow me.”[6]

When the boats – filled with an overabundance of fish – reach the shore, Peter and James and John “leave everything” (5:11). And they follow Jesus.

You know, we could spend some time and explore this idea of what it must take – what one might have to give up or sacrifice – to completely “leave everything” and follow Jesus. I think this concept has been covered fairly well and most preachers (as well as most people) would end up saying something like, “That would be hard – to leave everything like those first disciples did – too hard for me.”

But let’s think, for a moment, of the sheer abundance that Peter, James, and John have just experienced. Here they are – subsistence fishermen, likely very poor – living only by what they can catch. Sometimes they catch fish and are able to sell them and put food on the table. Sometimes, they work all night and catch nothing and there’s nothing on the table for them to eat. Sometimes, it feels like you and I might work all night – or all day and all night, or maybe our whole lives – and end up with not a whole lot of anything.

And yet, Jesus has a way of bringing blessing to those who are open to receiving it – not necessarily material wealth or a fish-filled windfall, though. No, the blessing of Jesus is that he left everything behind and came to live among us, to walk along our shorelines, meeting us where we are – in all of our struggles and all of our striving. And instead of leaving us to our own sinful selves, he seeks us out, and finds us, and chooses to bless us with a new way of life – a way of life that will not always be easy, but it will be blessed in the end. Following Jesus is far from easy. But Jesus gives us all that we need to show and share the love of God, to offer what we have, to be a blessing to the world in our own small, but grace-filled, way. Like Peter, we will be filled with doubt, we will make mistakes, we will often be foolish and forgetful. But this does not stop Jesus from continually seeking us, finding us, loving us and calling us into a deeper and more complete following of his gracious Way.

You know, the story of the miraculous catch of fish that we read today in Luke can also be found in John’s Gospel. But in the Gospel of John, the story takes place after Jesus has risen from the dead.[7] You might remember that when Jesus is arrested, Peter denies knowing who Jesus is – three times. But in John’s Gospel, as part of this fishing story, Jesus lovingly catches and forgives Peter and Peter’s future way of life finally becomes clear.

In John’s Gospel, there are a few details that are different from Luke’s version. Jesus is on the shore, unrecognizable, instead of in the boat with Peter. When Peter recognizes Jesus on the shore, though, he puts on his clothes (because he’s been fishing naked, for some reason) and he jumps into the water and swims to shore. Oh, and when Peter gets there, Jesus cooks him breakfast – likely some Tilapia, go figure. And then Jesus asks Peter, three times “Do you love me?” – one time for each of Peter’s denials. Each time, Peter says, “Yes, Lord.” With each, “Yes, Lord, you know that I love you,” as he realizes just how much Jesus loves and forgives him, Peter’s commitment to Jesus deepens. And then Jesus tells Peter to “feed [his] sheep” – take care of Jesus’ flock, a flock that will – all these years later – end up including you and me.

In the end, it is not the abundant fish, but the abundant love of Jesus that makes a difference – a difference in Peter’s life and in your life and mine, too. In the end, it is this love – the generous love of God – that draws us into the Holy embrace of Jesus Christ and calls us to go into deeper water – even if we are hesitant to do so – and let down our nets so that we may draw others into God’s Holy embrace. This is what it means to fish for people – to seek them and find them as vessels of God’s grace, and graciously capture them with God’s love, just as we have been sought and captured, and now called and sent to show and share God’s love.

May we do so, willingly, but more importantly – may we do so, lovingly – trusting in the One who has sought us and loves us.

In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

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[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mango_tilapia.

[2] See Matthew 4:19-20 and Mark 1:17-18.

[3] Eugene Peterson, The Message: Numbered Edition (Colorado Springs: NAV Press, 2002) 1415. Luke 5:5.

[4] Peterson, Luke 5:8.

[5] Walter Bauer, A Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament and Other Early Christian Literature (Chicago: University of Chicago Press, 1979) 340.

[6] Paraphrased, JHS.

[7] See John 21.

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