Thoughts from John 21: Being Uncomfortable

By Jeanie Tate

Looking for Comfort

Have you ever been tempted to go back to what’s comfortable? I love my comforts, my routine, my security. After Jesus died and rose again the disciples were not sure what to do with themselves. Jesus had not yet ascended but would appear randomly, always teaching and preparing them for everything coming next, even though they weren’t aware of it.    

Going Back to What We Know

Several of the disciples were fishermen. Peter decides they should give fishing another try, going back to what they knew. Many times, when we’re not sure what to do, we go back to what’s comfortable. But when you have met the Master, things that once satisfied simply don’t satisfy like they did before. The disciples fished all night and caught nothing. Had they lost their touch? No, they were made for greater things. Jesus had rocked their world. They had forgotten John 15:5, “If you remain in me and me in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.”  

The Master Interrupts

Suddenly, on the shore they hear a voice that says, “Cast your nets on the other side.” There was something familiar about this voice.  In obedience, they dropped the nets again. This time 153 fish were breaking their nets. What luck! Nope… what a Savior! Peter knows what just happened here and he jumps out of the boat and swims to his Master. Without Jesus, life is mediocre; with Jesus, life is abundant.

Being Uncomfortable and Being Right Where You Need to Be

Don’t settle for comfortable. I could’ve stayed comfortable, but God wanted more for me than I knew. Here I am today, a children’s minister, fishing for souls, feeding little sheep, caring for my flock. I am learning to listen when He calls me out to unknown things. This girl who loves routine and comfy schedules is learning to say “yes” to the Lord’s unexpected journey. He calls out, “Do you love Me?  Follow Me.” If you are willing, even though you are not qualified, He will equip you. He will do above and beyond what you can think or imagine, and you will know exactly why you were put on this earth. Then He will lead you from adventure to adventure. It won’t be easy. You will be stretched. You will NOT be comfortable! But, your heart will soar like the eagles. Trust me, you don’t want to miss that!