Today’s scripture: Luke 5:1-11 (NRSV) (The Message) (KJV) What might God be saying to me?
My thoughts (Robert Ferguson):
I was sitting in church last week feeling beat up and beat down from a long week at the office and the overwhelming responsibilities that come along with being a functioning adult. We all have them and certainly mine are no greater than yours. Church can be a very relaxing, calming place, a place to get nourished and rejuvenated. But sometimes I find it impossible to live up to the notion of holy and righteous. There are times when I think, What am I even doing here in this church? I don’t really feel that special. I don’t have a God-type life.
But as I read the text for today I realize, neither did Simon. He was a fisherman. Sometimes I don’t feel worthy to be in the presence of Jesus — and neither did Simon. But Jesus wanted him anyway, just the way he was, smelly from fishing, a sinner.
This is honestly one of my favorite Bible stories, ironic as it may be. When Jesus tells Simon to put the boat out and cast down his nets, it is a carpenter’s son and teacher telling a fisherman how to fish. It is like a pastor telling a CEO how to run technical aspects of his business! Not only that, but Simon’s response makes it clear that conditions for fishing are not right, since a major effort the night before had totally failed. Yet despite appearances and against his professional judgment, he follows the teacher’s command to let down the nets. Simon Peter does as he is told and shows us what true faith is all about.
The result is success and near disaster at the same time. The nets are filled to overflowing, and so is the boat! The fisherman is desperate for help to bring in all the fish. The boat is so full it begins to sink. Jesus has guided Simon to a great catch, but that catch is a picture of how he will guide the disciples in other, more spiritual affairs.
I am so glad that God can use even the least of us. God’s glory shines brightest through even the weakest vessels. The only thing that we are called to do is believe and have faith. That’s when God shows up to make everyone gasp at the wonder of God’s mercy and love. If you believe, submit to God’s will, and be obedient to the Word, then stand back and watch the work of the Lord. “For I am about to do something new. See, I have already begun! Do you not see it?” says the Lord in Isaiah 43:19.
Prayer for the day: Lord, thank you for using ordinary people for your purposes. It gives us hope that our lives can make a difference for your kingdom. May we believe you, submit to your will and be quick to obey your commands. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to get started, consider the suggestions on the How to Pray page.