Simon Peter and his cohorts were professional fisherman. They had successfully plied their trade for probably their whole lives. Chances are they learned to fish from their fathers. They made a living at it. No one knew the waters or the tricks of the trade better than they. That is why today’s Gospel story from Luke 5 is so interesting.
Jesus was this young rabbi. The son of a carpenter. What did he know about fishing? Simon and his crew had been out fishing all night and caught nothing. But Jesus tells him, “Put out into deep water and lower your nets for a catch.” Simon probably thought that this was craziness. But he was faithful, and so he did. They caught so many fish that their nets were tearing. Simon Peter knew that he had just witnessed a miracle.
This reminds me a lot of the times when we think we know better than God. When it comes to our work, our families, our finances, our sexuality, we’ll think, “God, I know what I’m doing here! I got this one handled.” Maybe Simon Peter thought the same thing. But he was faithful, and followed Jesus’ order. Turned out pretty well for him. I know it will turn out pretty well for you and me, too.
Father, forgive us for those times when we think we know better than you. Teach us to be faithful, that we may watch miracles happen in our lives. Amen.
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