“After this Jesus revealed himself again to the disciples by the Sea of Tiberias, and he revealed himself in this way,” (John 21:1, ESV).

St. Louis’ unofficial poet laureate, Yogi Berra, is reported to have once said, “It’s like Déjà vu all over again.” Jesus’ appearance to the disciples at the Sea of Galilee is filled with all-too-familiar moments that immediately take the disciples—and the readers—back to previous events in Jesus’ ministry. First, Jesus finds Peter, James, and John, once again at fishing. In Matthew and Mark’s accounts, Jesus had previously called them to leave behind their nets because they would now be about the task of fishing for men. Luke also describes a great catch of fish that causes Peter to fall at Jesus’ feet in repentance. Jesus, once again, invites them to come and eat as He, the Host, feeds them. Like the great crowds whom Jesus fed with only a few loaves and fish, He provides the disciples with all that they need. John notes that this was the third time that Jesus was revealed to them. This is the same word used at the Wedding at Cana, where Jesus’ glory is revealed through a great sign.

Everything that happened on that beach was for the purpose of Jesus being revealed to His disciples as the One in whom they believed and the One in whom they have life. From the first sign to the greatest sign—His resurrection—everything that Jesus did was so that others would believe in Him and therefore have eternal life. Every congregation, every Lutheran school, even every family, is blessed to reveal Jesus through His Word. Jesus continues to manifest Himself among us as His Word is proclaimed and His sacraments are administered. It should seem all too familiar as the Holy Spirit kindles faith within our hearts to see Jesus with the eyes of faith.

Jesus’ appearances are not random in any way. The Savior who called them to leave their nets behind the first time, calls them all over again. While many of us were called to faith through the waters of Holy Baptism, the Holy Spirit calls us all over again as we, by daily contrition and repentance drown the old, sinful nature so that the new creation can emerge. Like Peter, James, John, Thomas, and the rest, it seems like déjà vu all over again. That’s the joy and peace of sins forgiven. Our Lord’s gracious call restores us daily, just like Jesus did there on the seashore.

Prayer – O Lord Jesus, You who called the disciples to follow You, showed them mercy and grace for the times when they failed. Be merciful to us, and by Your grace renew us each day to follow where You lead; for You live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.