“Early in the morning, Jesus stood on the shore, but the disciples did not realize that it was Jesus. He called out to them, ‘Friends, haven’t you any fish?’ ‘No,’ they answered. He said, ‘Throw your net on the right side of the boat and you will find some.’ When they did, they were unable to haul the net in because of the large number of fish. … Simon Peter climbed aboard and dragged the net ashore. It was full of large fish, 153, but even with so many the net was not torn.” John 21:4-6, 11

In John 21, Jesus instructs his disciples to keep fishing faithfully – “you will find some” – despite their previous failure to catch anything all night. After faithfully obeying His instruction, they ended up catching 153 fish at one time! What an incredible miracle! What was even more incredible to John as an eyewitness was that “even with so many the net was not torn.” When Jesus had first called his disciples, he informed them that by following Him, he would make them “fishers of men” (Mark 1:17). Jesus is calling anyone who would follow him to make “spiritual fishing” a priority as we focus on winning as many as possible for God! (1 Corinthians 9:19) As a disciple of Jesus as well as a married man, it can be a challenge as I balance obeying God faithfully in all areas of my life as a disciple, supporting my amazing wife and best friend, and also leading a church of sold-out disciples for God! Did I mention taking care of a rambunctious puppy? The balance of it all without “our nets being torn” is only by the will and guidance of God!
On Saturday, September 30, 2006, the Central New York Church of Christ is pleased to host Nick and Denise Bordieri, the City Center Region Leaders for the Portland International Church of Christ, as our guest speakers for our Marriage Enrichment Day! They will be sharing how “The Miraculous Catch” relates to our marriages as well, due to the fact that our spouses are “miraculous catches” (Amen!) and our ministry must also be focused on making “miraculous catches” of disciples for the Lord! The balance between marriage, work and ministry without having our “nets” break will be the main focus of this inspiring time! The faith and perseverance of Nick (46) and Denise (40) are evident as they pursue their dreams for God by going into the full-time ministry! Nick has worked at the Nike Corporation for 16 years. When he goes into the ministry, he will leave an upper level management position at Nike’s World Headquarters in Portland. He will also be surrendering many benefits and stock options as well as an over six-figure salary! That is the faith in the power of God that we can all imitate!

Join us on Saturday, September 30, 2006 at The Palace Theater and Café, 2384 James Street, Syracuse NY 13210 as we come together for a “miraculous” time of food, fun, and fellowship! The events are planned from 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM, and the registration fee is only $60 per couple! We’ll see you there!