Knowing Jesus

John 21:11-14 Simon Peter climbed aboard 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.
 
AFTER what was likely a short conversation with Jesus, Peter helped the others take the 153 fish from the nets. The number may be specific as it was customary for fisherman to record their catch. John also illustrated this was a large catch of large fish, and the net remained intact. Jesus is covering all the details here. He has provided an abundant catch for income and for food. He has made the fire. He has preserved the nets for the next fishermen. The disciples could then focus their attention to their time with Jesus. Once again, a meal became a means of personal contact with Jesus.
   We do not know their conversation. But Peter would later testify to this meal as evidence that Jesus is alive: Acts 10:41 He was not seen by all the people, but by witnesses whom God had already chosen – by us who ate and drank with him after he rose from the dead.  
   Do you wonder why John wrote None of the disciples dared ask him, “Who are you?” I’ve always found this a stumbling block. Surely they knew Jesus. They had all seen him alive. Perhaps John is emphasizing that all have a complete knowledge Jesus is alive. They were sure then, and they were sure the rest of their lives. These men would soon structure their lives on this truth. Everything they would do would be to tell, “Jesus is risen! He has died that you will live as you confess your sins and believe in his resurrection.” All but John would die for this truth.  
   Perhaps it would be good to have a meal with Jesus. Sit at your table. Enjoy some food. Open your Bible. You know he’s alive. What is he saying to you?