The disciples were exhausted physically, emotionally and spiritually. In just a few days they had witnessed their beloved Master tried, beaten, crucified and then arisen from the dead. No wonder they went back to what they knew best and where they felt safe. – fishing. Maybe it was necessary financially, but certainly necessary emotionally. There is only so much the human mind can take.
Twice the risen Jesus had been seen by them and now as they were staggering off the boat after a busy night fishing they saw Jesus on the sea shore cooking a meal for them. Their nets were full of fish, 153 large ones. This was definitely a large catch as the exact number of fish were mentioned. Jesus has the fire and the bread ready, all that was needed was the fish.
They would have been tired, exhausted even, but breakfast was nearly ready. An added blessing, their nets were not even broken. No net-mending needed! It is wonderful that God is mindful of us in the same way – a bus arrives quickly when our load is heavy, a friend makes us a coffee when we are particularly busy, all the traffic lights are green when we are late for an appointment.
May we always be mindful and especially thankful for all God’s blessings, whether they are large or small.