In the midst of our fast-paced lives, filled with countless distractions, it’s easy to lose sight of the presence of God. Our minds become preoccupied with responsibilities, deadlines, and the clamor of the world around us. However, in John 21:7, we find a beautiful reminder of the importance of seeking and acknowledging the presence of God in our lives.
In this passage, we witness a profound moment between the resurrected Jesus and His disciples. Simon Peter and the other disciples had returned to their old way of life, fishing, after the crucifixion of Jesus. They had labored through the night without catching anything. As dawn broke, Jesus appeared on the shore, although the disciples did not immediately recognize Him.
But then, something incredible happened. The disciple whom Jesus loved recognized the Lord and exclaimed, “It is the Lord!” In that instant, Peter, overcome with love and a desire to be close to Jesus, hastily put on his outer garment and jumped into the water to reach Him.
Despite being caught up in the demands and disappointments of life, Peter’s heart remained attuned to the presence of Jesus. He was quick to perceive the Lord’s nearness and wasted no time in responding. He did not let the distractions of his circumstances hinder him from seeking and acknowledging the presence of God.
Similarly, in our modern lives, we face numerous distractions that can pull us away from recognizing God’s presence. The pressures of work, the allure of social media, the constant busyness, and the noise of the world can easily drown out the still, small voice of God. Yet, if we can cultivate a heart like Peter’s, we will be able to perceive the presence of God even in the midst of chaos.
Lord, help us make a conscious effort to pause amidst the clamor and seek God’s presence in our daily lives.