Thursday of the Twenty-second Week in Ordinary Time
Today’s scripture readings are reminders that God calls each of us to be with Him. Our choice lies in the ability to trust in God instead of relying upon our own wisdom and strength. It is in our humility to say “yes” that we are able to follow and become a disciple of Christ.
In the gospel reading, Jesus borrows Simon Peter’s boat to share his message with the crowds. After his teaching, Jesus instructs Simon to “put out into the deep water.” Despite Simon’s experience of spending the night without catching any fish, he follows Jesus’ command and the nets become filled to the point of sinking the boats. Simon approaches Jesus with great humility recognizing his own sinfulness and Jesus’ great power. Jesus reassures Simon and the other fishermen, and He invites them to leave their boats behind and follow Him.
If you are reading this reflection, then at some point you have heard Jesus call you to follow Him. You may be a cradle Catholic or someone has been practicing your faith for many years. You may be someone that has heard the call in the recent past. Most of us have not had some miraculous event that has opened our hearts and minds to Jesus, but our faith has evolved in the ups and downs of daily living. As I read through this scripture, I am reminded that God continues to call each of us every day. We are called to “go out into deep water” where we have to learn to trust that God will provide what we need.
In today’s first reading from St. Paul, we are invited to not allow our wisdom to become a source of pride. Both readings remind me that I sometimes take my eyes off of God and begin to rely on my own devices. As I begin to flounder, God gently calls me again and tells me not to be afraid. As I reach out in my sinfulness and humility, God gathers me in and invites me back into the fold.
Every day can be a renewal of our initial calling when we first heard God call our name and we said “yes.” Instead of being an experience of discouragement and failure, each time we respond again to the call, we can rejoice that God is a God of mercy and love. God’s grace overflows just like the nets teaming with fish. It is up to us to have the ears to hear, and the humility to follow Christ wherever He leads.
Loving Father, You call us to be yours and live in your love. Jesus shows us how we are called to live as His disciples. Send your Spirit upon us so we can recognize your call and humbly follow wherever you lead. We pray this in Christ’s name. AMEN
—Marylynn Herchline