Most Christians are familiar with the New Testament account of Jesus’ disciples’ decision to go fishing after he had risen from the dead (see John 21). There they were at the sea of Tiberias, having spent the night fishing to no avail. Their Master, whom they didn’t recognize, appeared on the shore in the morning and instructed them to cast their net on the right side of the boat, which they did, and immediately, “they were not able to draw it for the multitude of fishes” (John 21:6). They recognized Jesus and went to shore to dine with him.
As Mary Baker Eddy explains: “. . . wakened by their Master’s voice, they [the disciples] changed their methods, turned away from material things, and cast their net on the right side. Discerning Christ, Truth, anew on the shore of time, they were enabled to rise somewhat from mortal sensuousness, or the burial of mind in matter, into newness of life as Spirit” (Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures, p. 35).
While reading the account a few weeks ago, I suddenly saw that one important verse is often not mentioned. It’s a transitional one from the boat to that profound meal that was about to take place. It’s one that might even seem insignificant in light of what was about to happen. But it struck me as one of great importance.
