Do You Recognize Jesus?
Pastor Calvin Cook
“Just as day was breaking, Jesus stood on the shore; yet the disciples did not know that it was Jesus.” — John 21:4
The disciples had been through so much with Jesus. They had walked with Him, watched Him heal the sick, heard His teachings, saw Him die, and now had heard of His resurrection. And yet — when He stood on the shore that morning, they didn’t recognize Him. Even after Thomas asked for proof and received that proof just some days earlier.
It’s a haunting and humbling moment. How could they not know? But before we judge, we need to look at our own hearts.
How many times have we missed the presence of Jesus in our own lives? How often do we walk through challenges, heartaches, or even ordinary days, unaware that He’s standing right there on the shore of our circumstances? Sometimes our grief, fear, busyness, or doubt blinds us to His presence.
The beauty of this story is that Jesus doesn’t stay hidden. He calls out to them, “Children, do you have any fish?” He steps toward them, even when they don’t recognize Him.
So today, pause and ask yourself: For all I’ve been through with Jesus — do I recognize Him in the everyday moments of my life?
• Do I see Him in the kindness of a friend, the quiet answer to a prayer, or the nudge in my heart?
• Do I recognize His voice when He calls me to trust, to forgive, to step into something new?
Jesus is always calling us — often to deeper faith, greater surrender, or acts of discipleship. The question is, will we recognize His presence and respond?
• Where have you seen Jesus standing on the shore in your life recently?
• What is He calling you to today — and are you ready to respond, even if you didn’t expect to meet Him in this moment?
Prayer: Lord Jesus, open my eyes to see You today. Help me to recognize Your presence in the midst of my busy, messy, or uncertain life. Teach me to listen for Your voice and respond with faith. Amen.
Thoughts from the Edges 
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