“When you feel like stopping think about why you started!”
Today’s story is about a miraculous catch of fish; but in reality, it is so much more.
Jesus’ encounters with people were always about drawing more faith out of them. These moments were always about helping them see differently and to know with their hearts.
Today’s Gospel is no different.
Jesus, a carpenter, tells a professional fisherman how to fish. After a full night of wasted toil, the fishermen were cleaning their nets — a tiresome task, especially in light of having been so ineffective in their all-night efforts.
So, the carpenter says: “Put out into deep water and lower your nets for a catch.”
When Peter and his companions catch too many fish for even two boats, and their boats are ready to sink, Peter becomes profoundly aware of Jesus’ knowledge and insight. Peter sees Jesus as someone who is amazing and who amazes.
Peter also becomes aware that in relationship to Jesus, he is unworthy and a sinner. He utters striking words: “Depart from me, O Lord, for I am a sinful man.”
The great miracle was not about fish but about love. Jesus accepted Peter as he was and as Peter would reveal himself to be again and again.
Peter, who would deny even knowing Jesus in his moment of need, was the one Jesus would select to lead this ragged band of apostles.
He even elevated his fishing skills to become a fisher of men, women, people, and souls.
Peter would share in Jesus’s divine ministry of faith, hope and love’.
In Peter’s sinfulness, he found grace!
Father Perry D. Leiker is pastor of St. Bernard Church. Reach him at (323) 255-6142, Ext. 112; email perry.leiker@gmail.com. Follow Father Perry on Twitter: @MrDeano76.
