TODAY’S GOSPEL READING
9 FEBRUARY, 2025
Luke 5:1-11
While the crowd was pressing in on Jesus and listening
to the word of God,
he was standing by the Lake of Gennesaret.
He saw two boats there alongside the lake;
the fishermen had disembarked and were washing their nets.
Getting into one of the boats, the one belonging to Simon,
he asked him to put out a short distance from the shore.
Then he sat down and taught the crowds from the boat.
After he had finished speaking, he said to Simon,
“Put out into deep water and lower your nets for a catch.”
Simon said in reply,
“Master, we have worked hard all night and have caught nothing,
but at your command I will lower the nets.”
When they had done this, they caught a great number of fish
and their nets were tearing.
They signaled to their partners in the other boat
to come to help them.
They came and filled both boats
so that the boats were in danger of sinking.
When Simon Peter saw this, he fell at the knees of Jesus and said,
“Depart from me, Lord, for I am a sinful man.”
For astonishment at the catch of fish they had made seized him
and all those with him,
and likewise James and John, the sons of Zebedee,
who were partners of Simon.
Jesus said to Simon, “Do not be afraid;
from now on you will be catching men.”
When they brought their boats to the shore,
they left everything and followed him.
THE GOSPEL OF THE LORD!
REFLECTION
Luke 5:1-11 recounts the miraculous catch of fish, where Jesus calls His first disciples. This passage highlights Peter’s humility and trust in Jesus. Though Peter, an experienced fisherman, initially doubts the command to cast his nets after an unproductive night, he obeys Jesus, leading to an overwhelming blessing. This reminds us that God’s power transcends human limitations and understanding. Peter’s reaction of unworthiness before Jesus is a reminder of our need for humility in the face of God’s holiness. Additionally, Jesus transforms the ordinary—fishing—into an extraordinary calling to become “fishers of men.” This passage challenges us to trust God even in the face of failure and to embrace the higher purpose He calls us to. It inspires us to leave behind our fears and insecurities to follow Jesus wholeheartedly, knowing that obedience to Him brings both earthly provision and eternal significance.
PRAYER
Lord Jesus, thank You for calling us to follow You despite our weaknesses and doubts. Teach us to trust in Your word, even when circumstances seem discouraging. Help us to surrender our pride and recognize Your power in our lives. Lord, guide us to obey You wholeheartedly and embrace the purpose You have for us. Strengthen our faith to step out of our comfort zones and become “fishers of men,” sharing Your love with the world. May we respond to Your call with courage and humility. In Your Holy Name, we pray. Amen
