Devotion: Permission
John 21:4-14
Just after daybreak, Jesus stood on the beach; but the disciples did not know that it was Jesus. Jesus said to them, “Children, you have no fish, have you?” They answered him, “No.” He said to them, “Cast the net to the right side of the boat, and you will find some.” So they cast it, and now they were not able to haul it in because there were so many fish. That disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, “It is the Lord!” When Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he put on some clothes, for he was naked, and jumped into the sea. But the other disciples came in the boat, dragging the net full of fish, for they were not far from the land, only about a hundred yards off.
When they had gone ashore, they saw a charcoal fire there, with fish on it, and bread. Jesus said to them, “Bring some of the fish that you have just caught.” So Simon Peter went aboard and hauled the net ashore, full of large fish, a hundred fifty-three of them; and though there were so many, the net was not torn. Jesus said to them, “Come and have breakfast.” Now none of the disciples dared to ask him, “Who are you?” because they knew it was the Lord. Jesus came and took the bread and gave it to them, and did the same with the fish. This was now the third time that Jesus appeared to the disciples after he was raised from the dead.
“What kind of advice is this coming from a stranger? Fish during the day and off the right side of the boat?” the disciples thought, but they decided to give this crazy idea a try. To their amazement, they are jubilant over their big haul of fish. After they realize this man is Jesus, they are overwhelmed. What great love Jesus had for them! Jesus wants us to be happy and find joy in everyday moments.
Our twelve year-old grandson has discovered the love of fishing. After the rigors of school all day, it gives him a chance to unwind. He is patient and finds joy in catching a fish. He’s involved other members of the family, including my husband. They are making precious memories together that can never be taken away.
Our sermon topics have been based on Bronnie Ware’s book The Top Five Regrets of the Dying. We end with regret number five: I wish I had let myself be happier. God gives us permission to be happy. Happiness is a choice we make everyday. I realize that sometimes we can’t because of extenuating circumstances but most of the time we can try.
When I was a little girl and would get up crabby, my mother would send me back to bed. “Janece, go back to bed until you can be happy.” What punishment for a little girl that was so active! I learned at an early age that I needed to put a smile on my face and be happy or it would be a very long day.
I have observed that the people with the biggest smiles are the ones that have a grateful heart, are giving back, and serving others. They are fruitful with their time. They have come through trials and tribulation and found that God’s love helps them to weather the storm. They want to “pay it forward.” Others find it in relaxing hobbies where they find peace and contentment. They give themselves permission to enjoy the life God has given them. Their glass is always half full.
May all of us search our hearts to find where our happiness lies and pursue it. What puts a smile on your face? What makes your heart dance with joy? God is giving you permission to explore and be happy.
Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for loving me and giving me blessings each and everyday that I am so thankful for. Help me to discover new ways to find joy in everyday life and share it with others. Amen.
Written by Janece Nelson