Scripture:
1 Corinthians 3:18-23
Luke 5:1-11
Reflection:
A fish story! A faith story! What a gift for these days of Indian Summer, as we transition from summertime to the beauty of Fall.
The crowds were pressing in on Jesus, and he resorted to a boat nearby on the lake — to best teach the large crowd. Then Jesus directs Peter to put out into the deep waters and lower the fishing nets for a catch… Hmmmm…
Even though we might not be fisherfolk ourselves, we can sympathize with Peter – the professional fisherman. He knew the waters of the lake, the best times and places for fishing; it was critical for his livelihood. Along comes Jesus the Carpenter, who tells him to go fishing in the deep water at the wrong time of the day. Peter’s protest, "…we’ve worked hard all night long and have caught nothing…" was immediately followed by his profession of faith in Jesus: "…if you say so, at your command I’ll lower the nets." The results: a boatload of fish — and the call from Jesus to leave everything and follow him.
Both scripture readings remind us that God’s ways are not always our ways. God’s wisdom is what makes the world go ‘round, and we best leave the running of the universe to God (with our cooperation!).
Jesus invites us as well to be "fishers of people", prompting our response to say "yes" to Him, and "no" to the parts of life that move us in another direction than His Love. How am I responding to the Lord this day? Am I willing to "lower the nets" and say yes like those first disciples? What is my relationship to others who have likewise received a vocational call from Jesus?
Jesus, I have my opinions and even some doubts at times, but with St. Peter I say "here I am. Send me."
Fr. John Schork, C.P. is the local leader of the Passionist community in Louisville, Kentucky.