John 21: 1-7
Having been with Jesus for some years, it was imperative that the disciples should have known so much about Him. His voice should be so distinct both in their ears and in their spirit. His acts should have become more than familiar. Jesus taught them day and night! However in this passage, Peter seem to not be able to recognize Jesus anymore. This was very unlikely of him of all the disciples.
How come Peter had forgotten so soon? It makes me wonder how so soon people forget the Lord when their circumstances change (whether positively or negatively).
Why do people easily forget the ways of God and descend into some other types of living?
Why do people succumb to the deceits of riches, success or promotion that make them forget the Lord and His teachings?
Why do people in their moments of hardship, needs or struggle tend to forget the Lord and His instructions?How come the children of Israel also forgot the faithfulness of the Lord to them after they left Egypt and in the wilderness?
This however, is not absolute. Some remnants always stand out! This was the case of the ‘beloved disciple’ in this passage who announced to the hearing of Peter that “It is the Lord” and Peter then responded by jumping into the water. Peter needed a prompting from another disciple before he could recognize the Lord. The ‘beloved disciple’ was familiar with Jesus’ voice and style of doing things but it seemed Peter had become dull of perception and understanding; he did not know it was the Lord!
I love the ‘beloved disciple’! In the midst of the confusion in which they all found themselves, he could still recognize the Lord. He was quite close to the bosom of the Lord during His earthly ministry, so he could hear His heart cry; He knew what the Lord was saying even when He was not talking. This is a kind of life I covet: an intimate relationship with the Lord.
What situation will you experience that will make you forget the Lord? What will happen that will make you no longer recognize the presence or the voice of the Lord except someone prompts you? Thank God for those that prompts! How good would it rather be that you maintain consistency in your walk with the Lord.
A life of deep intimacy with God will help you distinguish His voice even in the greatest tempest or trials of faith.
Don’t just hang around Jesus, get intimate with Him!
#intimacywithJesus #Christianlife