A Meal by the Sea: Lessons from the Miraculous Catch-Fish.

There’s something so sacred about food shared after a long day’s work — especially when it’s cooked with love and served with purpose. I often think about one of my favorite Bible moments found in John 21:1–14 — the story of Jesus appearing to His disciples after His resurrection.

They had gone back to what they knew — fishing. The waves lapped against the boat, the sun rising slowly as their nets came up empty again and again. These were seasoned fishermen, weary in both body and spirit. Then a voice called from the shore, “Friends, haven’t you any fish?”

They didn’t know it was Jesus at first, but they listened. “Throw your net on the right side of the boat and you will find some.” And they did. The nets filled so full they could hardly pull them in. And in that moment, John recognized Him. “It is the Lord.”

What comes next is one of the most tender, love-filled meals in Scripture. Jesus, waiting on the shore, had already built a small fire and was cooking fish and preparing breakfast for His friends. Imagine that — the Son of God making breakfast after the hardest night of their lives.

They came ashore, dripping wet, hearts pounding, and He said, “Come and have breakfast.”

That’s the kind of love that restores. Quiet, steady, nourishing love.

Recipe: Grilled Honey Citrus Salmon (fish) with Garden Herbs

When I imagine that morning meal on the beach, I picture something simple yet full of flavor — something the disciples could have easily eaten. A freshly caught fish, cooked over coals, seasoned with what was available along the Galilean shore — salt, olive oil, maybe a squeeze of citrus, wild herbs, and honey from a nearby comb.

Ingredients

• 2 salmon fillets (or any fresh fish of your choice)

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp honey

• 1 tbsp lemon juice (or orange for sweetness)

• 1 tsp garlic, minced

• ½ tsp sea salt

• ¼ tsp cracked pepper

• 1 tbsp fresh herbs (parsley, dill, or thyme)

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, honey, citrus juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.

2. Brush mixture over salmon fillets and let marinate for 15–30 minutes.

3. Preheat grill or cast-iron skillet over medium heat.

4. Cook the salmon 4–5 minutes per side, brushing occasionally with leftover marinade.

5. Sprinkle with fresh herbs before serving.

Serve it simply, maybe with roasted figs, dates, bread, or a side of lentils — the kind of humble, wholesome food that fills both stomach and soul.

A Reflection of the Heart

When I think about that breakfast by the sea, I imagine the warmth of the fire and the peace that filled the air after so many storms — both literal and emotional. Jesus didn’t choose a feast to celebrate His return; He chose a meal that was quiet, familiar, and intimate.

He met His friends right where they were — tired, hungry, unsure — and He served them.

That’s what love does. It meets us where we are. It nourishes us with grace. It reminds us that even when our nets feel empty, when we’ve been casting all night with no return, there is still hope waiting on the shore.

Sometimes the most sacred meals aren’t about what’s on the plate, but who’s sitting across from you — and the love that is shared in that space.

XO, Marie

A Prayer

Heavenly Father,Thank You for meeting us on the shores of our weariness, for calling us back to Your love when we feel lost or tired. Help us to see You in the quiet moments — in the meals we share, in the hearts we hold close, in the warmth of simple things. Bless the food before us and the hands that prepare it. May it fill our bodies and renew our souls, reminding us that You are near — always waiting, always loving, always providing.Amen.