This past week’s readings start to give us a wonderful picture of the character Peter is. First of all, he says, “Sure, Jesus, you can use my boat to preach from.” Did he know what he was saying or doing? Maybe not. Impetuous Peter!
Then, he lets Jesus tell him how to fish! "Master, we have worked hard all night and have caught nothing, but at your command I will lower the nets" (Luke 5:5) However, when Peter realizes he is in the presence of the Messiah, he sort of loses it and begins to claim his unworthiness. “…[H]e fell at the knees of Jesus and said, ‘Depart from me, Lord, for I am a sinful man’” (Luke 5:8)
Has this ever happened to you? You open the door of your heart to Jesus and all of a sudden you are asked to be a fisher of humankind! What, me? No can’t be. I am too young, too old, not qualified. Pick someone else to do the fishing! You never know what will happen when you invite Jesus into your life.
I don’t know about you but I’ve been there -- not an easy place to be. But God is good and I recently came across this quote. It is the “Other Serenity Prayer” and I would like to share it with you:
“God, Grant me the serenity to stop beating myself up for not doing things perfectly, the courage to forgive myself because I am doing better, and the wisdom to know that you already love me just the way I am.” (Author unknown)
Perhaps Peter should have had a copy of this to help him. Many a time we can find fault with ourselves and think we are not worthy of the Lord’s call or challenge. We forget that He already loves us. He loved us into being and loves us as we grow in relationship with Him. Our mission is spread that good news to those we meet. That is how we, in today’s day and age, can become great fishers of humankind. Have a great week and happy fishing -- Jesus is with you!
Till next week,
Sister Theresita
