But when the day was now breaking, Jesus stood on the beach; yet the disciples did not know that it was Jesus. (NASB)
Thoughts
I was introduced to float-tube fishing in the Fall of 1999 by a friend and had a great time catching some really meaty trout in Eastern Arizona.
My favorite time to fish was early in the morning when the mist was just coming off the lake like smoke lingering over the water. Now if my friend yelled out to me while I was 100 yards out, I may not have seen him well; but I might have understood his voice to say, "Fish more over towards the right and you'll catch some really big ones." I have learned to listen because he does know how to catch fish!
This same kind of situation really did happen to the most famous fishermen who ever lived. (They weren't in float-tubes though.) It seems interesting to me that they didn't recognize it was Jesus until after the miracle took place.
Does Jesus need to do a miracle in our lives for us to recognize His presence? Miracles are important and they are exciting to experience, see, and talk about. But, I believe they really aren't the thing closest to God's heart. I believe the important encounter happened around the campfire--where Jesus was about to connect with His friends heart-to-heart, to calm their fears, and to settle the confusion as to what they were to do in the post-crucifixion and resurrection phase of their new found life.
Action Point
Take someone you love very much out to a lake or place where campfires are allowed. Have some heart-to-heart talks. You may be able to calm some of their fears, or they may be able to calm some of yours!
Sportsmen's Tip of the Day
If you've never experienced fishing from a float tube, try it. Go with someone that knows what he or she is doing.
