Today’s readings
I always think it’s interesting that whenever we see Peter and the others doing what they grew up doing – that is, fishing – they are never doing any good at it unless Jesus is around. Today’s Gospel is no different. Here Jesus comes along and sits in his boat, and tells Simon to put out the nets for a catch. I can almost feel him thinking “Put out my nets? What do you think I’ve been doing all night long?”
But when he gives in to his curiosity about Jesus, he is rewarded beyond anything he can possibly imagine. The catch fills, and more than fills, two boats! This great abundance foreshadows they way that Jesus will fill their lives and give them purpose beyond anything fishing can do. Yes, they will be catching people, not fish, and winning hearts for the kingdom, but they will also find their true calling and be fulfilled in ways they could never have imagined.
Of it all, Peter feels unworthy: “Depart from me, Lord, for I am a sinful man.” We might all feel that way when Jesus fills up our lives and reveals our true calling. But we will never be truly fulfilled unless we leave everything and follow him.