The answer is: Bread and fish

John 21:9-13

When Jesus and the disciples gathered by the Sea of Tiberias, their breakfast of bread and fish was not just a meal; it was laden with symbolism! The sea had witnessed the beginning of many of their adventures, and by preparing this simple meal, Jesus was reestablishing those intimate ties that had become sacrosanct over the years of walking, preaching, and healing together.

Fish holds a special place in biblical stories. Those early disciples were fishermen, so sharing fish was not only comfortable but also a reminder of their roots—and their calling, as they transitioned from fishing in the water to fishing for people’s souls! The abundance in the meal reflects Jesus' knack for transforming scarcity into abundance, reminiscing the miraculous feeding of the 5,000 where five loaves and two fish were multiplied.

It's fascinating too how bread and fish have resonated throughout Christian traditions. They often join as a meal at communion tables across denominations, signifying unity and remembrance much like this breakfast by the shore. The disciples understood that, even in their solitary grief post-resurrection, they were called to fellowship and reunion with each other—with Jesus at the center.

Plus, in the Hebrew scriptures, bread often symbolizes sustenance from God, while fish represents fertility and faith. So, this breakfast turned the most ordinary moment into a profound experience intricately tied to their journey together and the mission that lay ahead. Talk about nourishing on multiple levels!