From now on you will be catching men

The fishermen are deep in their thoughts since they have caught nothing on the previous night. Their silence is broken when Jesus asks to use Peter’s boat so he can preach to the crowd that has gathered on the shore. It is a tedious task to wash heavy nets, especially when these nets have failed to haul in any catch of fish.

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But Jesus surprises Simon when, after teaching, he instructs him and his companions, “Put out into deep water and lower your nets for a catch” (v 4).

Simon initially resists, and he explains to Jesus how they have worked hard the previous night but have caught nothing. But he eventually relents, saying, “But at your command, I will lower the nets” (v 5).

The big catch of fish touches Simon to the core of his being, and he is moved to recognize his own sinfulness. He also feels unequal to the task that Jesus presents to him, “From now on you will be catching men” (v 10). Peter feels inadequate as he stands before Jesus.

Peter has his share of imperfections and actual failures. But it is by the strength that comes from Jesus that Peter is able to respond to Jesus’ invitation and later manages to rise up after falling in discipleship.

First Reading • Col 1:9-14