John 21:1-14
Be Still: As I pause in this moment of reflection, Lord, draw near to me. Fill me with Your Spirit, renew my mind, and speak to the depths of my heart. Amen
Read: John 21:1-14
He called out to them, “Friends, haven’t you any fish? (v5)
Encounter: In this passage, the disciples, experienced fishermen, spent an entire night fishing but caught nothing. As morning light broke, Jesus stood on the shore and advised them to cast their net on the right side of the boat. Though they had every reason to rely on their expertise, they listened – and the result was a catch so abundant they could barely haul it in.
This moment wasn’t just about fish; it was about perspective. The disciples thought they knew best, but Jesus redefined their work, showing them that obedience –especially in the everyday – can bring results beyond human ability.
I relate to this deeply. After university, I started my career in software engineering, eventually becoming a software design consultant. I had built expertise, much like the disciples in their trade. Yet, despite success, I felt something was missing. I wanted to do more for God and found myself comparing my work with others doing visible, meaningful ministry. I prayed for change, expecting a dramatic shift, but instead, God changed how I saw my work.
Apply: I realised I had been separating my faith from my profession. Jesus wasn’t calling me to abandon my career, back then, but to let him redefine it.
I began to see my workplace as a space to serve. A talented team member struggled with mornings, so instead of joining the complainers, I started waking him up and taking him to work. A co-worker facing family struggles needed someone to listen, so I made time. Another colleague needed mentorship, so I walked with them during lunch breaks. Have you ever considered how small acts of care in your daily routine could change someone’s life?
On my last day, a co-worker mentioned that if they ever decided to attend church, they would choose mine, despite us never having talked about faith or church. That moment reminded me that when we let Jesus reshape how we see our everyday work, even routine tasks can have an impact far beyond what we expect. Where might he be calling you to cast your net differently today?
Devote: Jesus show me today your perspective in all the places I find myself. Lord renew and redefine my thinking.