John 21. “Friends, haven’t you any fish?” Jesus asked the disciples (John 21:5). No, they do not. In fact, they have been out fishing all night and have nothing to show for it.

Yet the presence of Jesus changes everything… He tells them to throw the nets on the other side of the boat (as if they had not already thought about that), and they haul in an enormous number of fish. At that moment John said to Peter, “It is the Lord!” and they recognized Jesus. “Come and have breakfast” Jesus said to them (John 21:12).

A huge catch of fish and breakfast with the risen Lord – do you see the kindness of Jesus? The overwhelming thoughtfulness and generosity? He reveals himself to be The Good Shepherd, the one mentioned in Psalm 23 who prepares a table for his people beside still waters. Their cups overflow with his kindness!

When they finish breakfast, Jesus engages with Peter. A week or more ago Peter found himself in a threatening situation when Jesus was arrested, and Peter had denied knowing Jesus three times. “Peter, do you love me?” Jesus asked (John 21:15). Yes, of course, Peter loves Jesus, but Jesus asks him three times to confirm it. Peter is slightly vexed by the third time, perhaps only later realizing that Jesus was asking intentionally to undo the weight and shame of Peter’s denials.

See again the great kindness and mercy of Jesus! It is important to him to lift the weight that must have laid on Peter’s heart, knowing he had denied the Lord he loved. Jesus does not want Peter to carry that shame, so he intentionally reinstates Peter in this purposeful conversation.

Peter will go on to become the leader of the church in Jerusalem, and Jesus gives him specific instructions. “Feed my lambs. Take care of my sheep. Feed my sheep.” (John 21: 15-17). Peter is not only forgiven for his failures, but he is also appointed as a sous-shepherd to the Good Shepherd; charged with caring for the followers of Jesus in his absence.

Peter thinks about this for a moment and looks around. Seeing the disciple John nearby, he asks Jesus, “What about him?”  This comparison of self and wondering what Jesus’ plan for someone else is earns a short but stinging rebuke from Jesus. Comparing our journey to the journey of other followers of Jesus is unwise and leads to discontent, so Jesus is having none of it.

What stands out to you in this final chapter of John’s gospel? Is it the mercy and kindness of Jesus, a generous heart toward his followers? Is it his intentionality in forgiving and removing shame? Is it the reminder to not compare your journey with others?

The whole world would not have enough room for the books that would be written about all the amazing things Jesus did in his years on earth!

We start reading 1 John tomorrow.