{This work of fiction is based on the framework of Scripture found in Mark 4:35-41, Matthew 8:23-27, and Luke 8:22-25} The sun was setting, and the crowd was hungry. Jesus’s voice was growing hoarse, and Andrew could tell he was tired. For Jesus, it had been a long day of teaching. For the disciples it had been a long day of managing the crowds. Today, as they pressed in on him, Jesus had again climbed into their boat, and Andrew and Peter had waded into the sea of Galilee to push … [Read more...]
A Fresh Look at the Familiar: One Thing
{This work of fiction is based on the framework of Luke 10:38-42.} Martha tip-toed into the room where Jesus was speaking to the guests. She padded around the table setting plates at each spot. She did not want to disturb him or her other guests. She did, however, want to disturb Mary. She let the last plate clatter into place to get Mary’s attention. But no one noticed. Not even Mary. Martha hurried back to the kitchen where the kettle was spitting into the fire. She … [Read more...]
Fresh Look at the Familiar: Honesty
{This work of fiction is based on the framework of John 21:15-19.} The beach was waking up. Gulls bobbed on the water, squawking at the fishermen and diving for food. Other boats pulled up to the shore, their crews gaping at the huge catch that had already been hauled in. When the eight friends finished eating, Jesus and Peter walked along the shore where the breeze ruffled the water and splashed into foam near their feet. The small talk of the first reunion had passed. Peter … [Read more...]
Fresh Look at the Familiar: Who?
{This work of fiction is based on the framework of John 21:10-14.} {Part 1: Waiting} {Part 2: Surprise} {Part 3: Forgiveness} It was just a few moments before the hull of the boat sliced into the shore. “Bring some of the fish you just caught,” Jesus hollered. Peter swallowed the bread, jogged to the boat and climbed on board to help drag the bulging net out of the water. The seven of them heaved fish and nets, ropes and baskets up the shore to begin untangling fins and … [Read more...]
Fresh Look at the Familiar: Forgiveness
{This work of fiction is based on the framework of John 21:8-9.} {Part 1: Waiting} {Part 2: Surprise} Water rushed into his ears, and muted the night sounds. The quiet underwater allowed the screaming questions and the agonizing apology to echo. When Peter broke the surface, he saw Jesus bending over the fire. He swam until he could stand and thrashed through the water to the shore. The unmistakable scar on the hand that stirred the coals and turned the roasting fish confirmed … [Read more...]