{This work of fiction is based on the framework of John 21:6-7. Previously, Part 1:} Peter coiled the ropes into a sloppy pile on the deck. The man on the shore called to them again, but Peter couldn’t hear over the lapping water and sliding ropes “What did he say?” Peter asked. John answered, “He said, cast on the right side to find some fish.” The rest of them stopped fiddling with nets and oars, ropes and sails. They looked from one to another, too tired to think and too … [Read more...]
Frustrated Waiting
{This work of fiction is based on the framework of John 21:1-5.} It was a dreary but familiar rhythm. Peter cast out his net and heard it slap the surface and then hiss as it sunk. Hand over hand, Peter and John drew it back in scraping ropes over the hull. Slap. Hiss. Scrape. Nothing. Hour after hour. All night long. The motions had come back as naturally as breathing, but tonight he was waking muscles that had been sleeping for years. And they were angry. Three years … [Read more...]
When Your Faith is Weak for Holy Week
I’ve tried to imagine the disciples’ confusion as they witnessed the highs and lows of Holy Week. On Palm Sunday Jesus rode into Jerusalem the hailing shouts of “Hosanna! Oh, Save!” By Thursday he declared his body broken and his blood poured out, even as he was standing before them whole. Sunday's hosannas were thrust into questions by Thursday night, as their king stooped to serve. By Friday, they fled. Jesus had told them their faith was small, little, even twisted, and as they ran and … [Read more...]
Familiar Strangers of Holy Week
When it comes to the events of Holy Week and the Easter story, we sometimes find ourselves in the precarious place of overfamiliarity. On the one hand, familiarity is a gift. Knowing these parts of the Bible so well helps us understand other parts that are less celebrated. On the other hand, we live in a world that is constantly careening toward the next new thing. Continual news feed keeps us chasing the most current information. Breaking news and discoveries are only new for a matter of … [Read more...]
A Fresh Look at the Familiar
We’ve had a little taste of Spring around here, and Spring is notoriously the time to celebrate new birth, new growth and lots of other new things we’ve been waiting for all winter. Maybe you’re eager to try out your new bike, new stroller, new running shoes, or new fishing reel. Trying new things isn’t always easy. I’ve written before about my long bout with Tryer’s Remorse when I’ve regretted trying new things. But I’m growing up and there’s something about turning 40 (something) that helps … [Read more...]