e81 Learning to See: The Lord Made Known

SoulWork Notese81 Learning to See: The Lord Made Known, a meditation on John 21:1–14The disciples return to what they know—fishing. They work through the night and come up empty.Then Jesus speaks.The water is the same. The nets are the same. The men are the same.What changes is His word.At His instruction, their empty nets are filled with abundance. And in that moment, they recognize Him.“They knew it was the Lord.” (John 21:12)This moment echoes the wedding at Cana (John 2), where Jesus also provides in abundance. In both places, He makes Himself known—not through explanation, but through provision.In John’s Gospel, abundance is a sign of life— life that comes from Jesus and is sustained by Him (John 10:10).The miracle happens within their ordinary work. Not apart from it.And recognition comes through encounter— through His voice, through His presence, through what He does.SoulWorkWhere have you been showing up faithfully and still experiencing emptiness?What might Jesus be inviting you to do differently—even if it feels small or ordinary?Where have you seen a glimpse of His provision or presence recently?SoulWork HomeworkChoose one ordinary area of your life—your work, your home, a conversation, a routine.As you enter that space, pause and pray: “Jesus, I’m listening. Show me where You are at work.” Then take one small step of trust in response to what you sense—something simple, concrete, and faithful.Stay attentive throughout the week to how He meets you there.Closing Blessing PrayerMay the Lord who makes Himself known meet you in the ordinary places of your life. May you recognize His voice, trust His word, and see His provision where you once saw lack. And as you walk through this week, may you come to know—quietly and surely—that He is with you, and that He is at work. In Jesus’ name, amen. Go Deeper: Notes from the SanctuaryIf you desire to go deeper this week, I invite you to join my newsletter, Notes from the Sanctuary. Subscribers receive additional SoulWork resources—guided reflections, Scripture, and practices that are not shared on the podcast or in these notes. It’s a quiet space to continue this work with God, slowly and prayerfully, throughout the week.[Join here]If you’d like to help sustain this work, you’re welcome to support it here.Until next time, may God bless and keep you, may God’s face shine upon you, and may God grant you peace as you continue your SoulWork.Disclaimer: The content shared on the SoulWork Sanctuary podcast is for informational and inspirational purposes only. While I am an ordained minister and trained spiritual director, I am not a licensed therapist or medical professional. This podcast does not provide medical or mental health advice and should not be used as a substitute for professional care. Please seek support from a qualified provider if needed.