the net was not torn

“So when they got out on the land, they saw a charcoal fire already laid and fish placed on it, and bread. Jesus said to them, “Bring some of the fish which you have now caught.” Simon Peter went up and drew the net to land, full of large fish, a hundred and fifty-three; and although there were so many, the net was not torn.” John‬ ‭21:9-11

there is so much here. Jesus’ thoughtfulness. His kindness. His compassion. Jesus’ care. His service. His goodness. His generosity...

and today, tHis gift to me: the net was not torn
although there were so many fish, 153 to be exact, the net was not torn
under such a great burden, not just 153 fish, but 153 large fish, the net was not torn

over the past few days I have felt as though my heart has been rent in two by the brokenness of living in the Already and Not Yet. George Floyd calling out, “I can’t breathe,” reverberates deep within. and i too cannot breathe as my soul struggles under the weight of yet another wrong

and then, God
     (but really it is just then i have eyes to see, because Truth tells me God is always and forever)
this morning’s REAPing, John 21:9-14. and it is this little phrase, “the net was not torn.”
only by God’s grace
He holds all things together (Colossians 1:17), including the disciple’s net and a woman’s heart. though the burden is overwhelming, i am stretched, but not torn. yes, He graciously holds me together

and,
there is more for Him to remember me to
the disciples heavy load, their burden of 153 large fish
it was all blessing
so while I may be struggling under the weight of this burden— it will somehow, someway, someday be counted as blessing (Romans 8:28)

Lord, thank You
may i honor You and bring You glory
justice. humility. kindness. (Micah 6:8)


[please know this is NOT hermeneutics, rather it is the sharing of gentle whispers in my soul (He is good. He is faithful. He can be trusted) as i read, “the net was not torn.”]