PGA Chaplain Bible Studies
Study 41 November 3rd to 9th 2008.
Reading – John Chapter 21:1-14.
Fishing and the Barbie, but where are the men today?
“I’m going out to fish, Simon Peter told the other disciples. They said, “We’ll go with you” So they went out in the boat, but that night they caught nothing.__ Early in the morning, Jesus stood on the shore, but the disciples did not realise that it was Jesus. He called out to them, “Friends, haven’t you any fish”? “No” they answered. Jesus said, “Throw your net on the right side of the boat and you will find some”. When they did, they were unable to haul the net in because of the large number of fish._ When they landed at shore, they saw a fire of burning coals there with fish on it and some bread. __ Jesus said, “Come and have breakfast” (John Chapter 21: sections of verses 3 to 14 New International Version).
Fishing and the BBQ are two of the Aussie’s male’s favourite activities during summer. After golf, watching a little cricket and a nap, what could be better than a little fishing and a Barbie. In the meantime our wives wait for our great catch in high expectation! I remember when I was young bringing home about 6 good sized fish that was given to me and telling my mum how great a fisherman I was. I am terrible at trying to catch a fish and I usually cook my meat very well done (or burnt offerings as my children call them sometimes), but I certainly enjoy these two pass-times when I have the opportunity. In our family it is the male’s job to cook the BBQ.
Christmas is not far away and I am sure for many of us, a good steak, sausage, onions, Kabab, prawns and fish will be consumed on the BBQ.
Fishing was a job for some of the disciples before they followed Jesus. Jesus chose rugged men as his leaders, outdoor brave men who would give their life to him.
The disciples were passing the time as they waited for Jesus to reveal his next job for them, so they went fishing. As usual they caught nothing, but with Jesus’ help were able to bring in a net full of fish. Jesus had prepared a BBQ for them. This may be an unusual scene for some of us concerning Jesus, but here Jesus is the cook and he shows us his male trait as a fisherman and the BBQ cooker.
Fishing, eating and hospitality are important themes in Jesus’ life and his followers. Our reading today shows Jesus with men doing things men enjoy. It is noticeable in our culture today that many men are absent from church life. Church is seen more for women and children. Us men say; “you go,” I‘ll stay home and play golf or read the paper. I long for the day when men will be leaders again to their wives and children. By this I mean leading in the most important areas of life; in following God and being an example for others. By having a passion for God above our sport, work and pleasures, that others can see. Nothing less will do.
I see men in my circles too consumed with golf, alcohol, sex, eating too much, money, jobs and interests. I too have lost my way in these. I long for the day when men will be leaders again and I know this must start with me.
Prayer. Almighty God, thank you for the gift of being male, of being strong, a leader, willing to die for our wives and children. We also enjoy golf, fishing and the BBQ. Help develop in me the courage and the desire to follow Jesus above all else. Amen. |
