Go Into the Deep

Luke 5: 4-11

“4 When he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, “Put out into the deep water and let down your nets for a catch.” 5 Simon answered, “Master, we have worked all night long but have caught nothing. Yet if you say so, I will let down the nets.” 6 When they had done this, they caught so many fish that their nets were beginning to break. 7 So they signaled their partners in the other boat to come and help them. And they came and filled both boats, so that they began to sink. 8 But when Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, “Go away from me, Lord, for I am a sinful man!” 9 For he and all who were with him were amazed at the catch of fish that they had taken; 10 and so also were James and John, sons of Zebedee, who were partners with Simon. Then Jesus said to Simon, “Do not be afraid; from now on you will be catching people.” 11 When they had brought their boats to shore, they left everything and followed him.”

Peter and his fishing partners, James and John had fished all night long and were cleaning their nets, putting them up when Jesus came along.  After preaching to the crowd on shore, Jesus told Peter to go out into deep water and put down the nets.  

Peter was an experienced fisherman.  He knew when the fish were not biting and when they were.  He knew when to quit and when to go out.  Yet here was a Rabi telling him how and when to fish.

Peter listened to Christ.  Even though he was tired.  Even though he was frustrated.  Even though it did not make sense.  And they caught so many fish they nearly sank the boat.

Christ came to fill our spiritual lives to overflowing.  And, though we may be tired and frustrated, Christ calls us to go into the deep water with Him…

and to put down the nets.

May the love of Christ be with you,

Rev. Eric Lanier (Retired)