Faith That Fishes
Luke 5:1 – 11
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In this passage , we see the calling of Simon Peter through a powerful encounter . Jesus tells the beleaguered fisherman to forget all the futility he ’ s experienced the night before and let his nets down once again . Although it ’ s doubtful how much faith Peter has in catching anything at that point , he obeys and the fish filled his nets to the point of breaking . In an instant , we see Peter grasping who stands before him — Jesus is not like other men . He has power over the fish in the sea .
So Peter tells Jesus to go away . He knows he is a broken , sinful man , and he can ’ t stay in the presence of Jesus . He ’ s afraid . Jesus , in his graciousness , tells Peter to put away his fear because he has a new task for him , no longer catching fish , but people . What comes next shows incredible faith . Peter leaves his livelihood ( fishing ) and identity ( fisherman ) and follows Jesus .
The same is true for you . Once you encounter Jesus , you realize you are unworthy of his affection and kindness . You are aware of your sin . But Jesus redirects you . He gives you a new direction , a new identity , and a new task — to join him in the faith journey of telling others about Jesus . What a privilege !
Lord , awaken in me a faith that fishes — for others . Redirect me today to remember that you ’ ve saved my life so I can be a part of helping others be rescued by you . I want to fish for people , but I need your strength . Amen .
When was the last time you went fishing ? What happened ? ( If you ’ ve never been fishing , recall a fishing story you ’ ve been told .) How are fishing and telling others about Jesus similar ?