In eighth grade, I decided to try out for my school’s basketball team. I was so excited because the coach asked me to try out as I concluded the seventh grade. I remember giving my all during tryouts, enthusiastically completing each drill, scoring as often as I could during scrimmages, and even envisioning my body in the team jersey. I just knew I’d make the team, but I didn’t make it through the first cut. I was devastated; it hurt so bad that I cried. I hated that feeling so much that I vowed to never try out for basketball again.
This memory reminded me of how devastating and immobilizing disappointment can be. If you’re not careful, disappointment can suspend your pursuit of excellence. The disciples featured in this text were the epitome of ambition, but when Jesus died, all of their motivation vanished. They were so disappointed that they left ministry for a mediocre coping mechanism – fishing. To add insult to injury, the coping strategy wasn’t effective; though they fished all night, they didn’t catch anything. Just when they reached the depths of disappointment, Jesus, our awesome Savior, came to the rescue. He returned in the glory of the resurrection, proving that it’s not over until God says so!
This recharge is dedicated to those who have been devastated by disappointments. One failure does not make you a failure, and one unfavorable outcome does not mean everything will end unfavorably. Remember, the power to ascend lives in you; get up from disappointment!
For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength (Philippians 4:13, New Living Translation)