Tips to Try
This is one of the first stories I worked on after reading “The Art of Storytelling.” I developed it by pretty much following the steps John lays out in the book. What I added was my personal connection to the story. I had just been called into my first leadership role in our church. And I had many questions about my ability to lead. I knew my shortcomings and wondered when others would spot them. So you could say I’ve projected my own feelings onto Peter in this story. After his denial of Christ, he must have had doubts about his ability to be any sort of disciple, much less the leader of a group destined to change the world!
So I would suggest that you look at this story with your own feelings and experience. When have you felt overmatched by the situation you were in? Have you ever felt that God might have made a mistake in calling you? Making personal connections is vital for making any story, biblical or other, real for you and for your listeners.
I’ve often used this story when talking to new church leaders. It is a great story for your next class of deacons or elders. It works for youth who are considering confirmation and for adults who aren’t sure if they can teach Sunday school or lead youth group. For me the central truth of this story is that Jesus didn’t ask Peter to take over leadership form him. Jesus still leads. Peter was asked to follow. And when Peter gave up trying to be in control, oddly enough, he was then ready to take on a leadership role.
This is a reflective story. Tell it at a relaxed pace. Take your time. Give your audience time to join you in exploring what is going on. Judicious use of the pause will give them an opportunity to reflect on their own experiences of how they are called to follow and lead. I have found that an awareness of my own breathing pattern helps me pace a story.
Finally, don’t let this retelling of John 21 replace the original biblical story. I would suggest that you take the time to learn John’s telling of the events at that breakfast on the beach. After all, he was there! Tell your version of this story and then tell John’s. Invite your audience to compare and contrast. It’s a wonderful way to study the bible and bring it to life. Let me know what you discover!
Don’t forget to check out our ‘Story of the Month’ as well
Check out the past five months of stories and tips
