The Draught of Fishes 

On January 13, 28 CE, Jesus and the apostles arrived at Zebedee’s home in Bethsaida to prepare for their inaugural public preaching tour. By the seaside that Friday morning, Jesus, pressed by the throngs eager to hear him, signaled to nearby fishermen for assistance. He stepped into the boat, named "Simon," which had been constructed by Jesus himself and was being maintained by David Zebedee and two colleagues after an unsuccessful night of fishing. Using the boat as his platform, Jesus taught the multitude for over two hours, providing a respite for the weary fishermen.

Following his teachings, Jesus, acknowledging the fishermen's fruitless efforts, proposed to assist them in fishing. Despite initial skepticism from Simon, one of David’s assistants, who remarked on their lack of success, they acquiesced to Jesus’ suggestion after David’s encouraging gesture. At Jesus’ guided location, they cast their nets and were astonished to capture such an abundance of fish that their nets nearly tore, and they required help from shore to haul the catch. Overwhelmed by the haul, Simon recognized his unworthiness in Jesus’ presence and declared his sinfulness. This profound experience led David, Simon, and others to abandon their fishing trade to follow Jesus.

This event, though not miraculous in the conventional sense, was perceived as such due to Jesus' intimate knowledge of the lake's fish patterns. His directive was based on a deep understanding of nature, contrasting with the typical unpredictability of fishing results. The substantial catch that day reinforced the disciples' belief in Jesus' exceptional leadership and insight, culminating in their commitment to his ministry.