How’s That Working?

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.” – John 21:4-6a (NRSV) 

I wonder how things might have unfolded on the beach that morning if the disciples had been fishing somewhere in modern-day America. Instead of Jesus, perhaps it’s a certain celebrity psychologist who comes strolling along the shore, calling out in a friendly way, “Catch anything?” 

The disciples shake their heads, explaining that they’ve been fishing here all night long, with nothing to show for their efforts. 

Dr. Phil listens carefully. Then he takes a deep breath and says, “Let me make sure I’ve got this right. Even though your net comes up empty every time, you keep casting it over and over again right here, on the same side of the boat?”  

The disciples nod. They’re feeling a little sheepish now, because they’ve recognized their visitor and they’re ready for the question they know is coming next:  

“How’s that working for you?”  

All through the centuries, wise teachers have asked hard questions. The kinds of questions that can wake us up to the emptiness of our nets. Questions designed to show us that our familiar strategies – for control, for security, for power, for love – are not actually giving us the results we want.  

We bring old behavior patterns into new relationships and then wonder why things are falling apart…again. We play it safe instead of stretching ourselves into new challenges, then feel envious and critical of those who dare to try new things. We skim the nets of our attention across the shallows of our days, wondering why we’re still so hungry for something we can barely name.  

And all the while, our Teacher is calling from the shore, “Beloved, you have no fish, have you?”  

Prayer
Jesus, help us find the humility to admit that our nets are empty, and the courage to try a new way. Amen.

About the Author
Rev. Yael Lachman is a UCC minister and artist who leads contemplative retreats, art adventures, and worship for all ages, most often in wild places. You can find Yael here.