Just Lost Your Best Friend!

For three years, the disciples had followed Jesus. They left their jobs, their families, their homes—everything—to become a part of what the Great Teacher was speaking of. But all of a sudden, all their dreams and hopes were shattered as Jesus was crucified. They were lost in their shattered dreams. Everything they had hoped for was over. They’d just lost their best friend!

There was nothing else to do but just go back fishing. John records it this way: “‘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. Early in the morning, Jesus stood on the shore, but the disciples did not realize that it was Jesus” (John 21:3-4). So in the midst of their chaotic situation, they choose to return to the only thing they know how to do.

You know their feelings. You’ve been there. You’ve experienced similar situations—situations where you thought life was on track and going great—but all of a sudden it’s all shattered and falling apart. Whatever the reason may be, it’s like you’ve just lost you best friend! You’ve lost all hope and find yourself returning to your old way of life—your old habits are calling; the old places you used to frequent are calling; life like it used to be is looking better all the time.

That was the disciples. As they went out in the boat that day, God hadn’t abandoned them. He was still there for them. They retrieved their nets and nothing! Jesus, standing on the seashore, hollered at them to try the other side. They didn’t recognize Jesus but did as He said and they caught more than they could drag in. As they came ashore they recognized Jesus. And as He spoke words of life and love into them, they began to realize their mission wasn’t over, it was just beginning. Their best friend hadn’t left them. On the Day of Pentecost, God put things in motion through them to evangelize the world.

God isn’t through with you either. Don’t look back. Don’t turn back. Stay the course God has put you on. Your best friend, Jesus, is still right there with you no matter how the circumstances may appear. Simply trust!