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On one occasion, while the crowd was pressing in on Him to hear the word of God, [Jesus] … sat down and taught the people from [Simon Peter’s] boat. And when He had finished speaking, He said to Simon, “Put out into the deep and let down your nets for a catch.” And Simon answered, “Master, we toiled all night and took nothing! But at Your word I will let down the nets.” And when they had done this, they enclosed a large number of fish, and their nets were breaking. … But when Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, “Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord.” … And Jesus said to Simon, “Do not be afraid; from now on you will be catching men.” And when they had brought their boats to land, they left everything and followed Him. (Luke 5:1a, 3b-6, 8, 10b-11)
I wonder how Peter felt, kneeling in front of Jesus on that boat. He must have been waist deep in flopping fish! Just a little earlier he had been treating Jesus like someone who didn’t know what He was talking about. And now he realizes … what? Well, that Jesus understands fish?
More important, Jesus understands people. He knows that Peter is weak and sinful. And yet, He still calls him to help bring others to the kingdom of God. Jesus calls us too, in spite of our sins and weakness. He will use us to tell others about the One who loves us all so much He died and rose to save us and to make us His own.
WE PRAY: Lord, You know I am weak. Please use me anyway. Amen.
Reflection Questions:
- Why do you think Jesus chose ordinary fishermen to be His disciples?
- Would you have made such a choice? Why or why not?
- Jesus loves and calls you, too. What goes through your mind when you think of answering Him?
Lenten Devotions were written by Dr. Kari Vo.
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