Reflection for Sunday 02/07/10

READINGS
First Reading: Isaiah 6:1-2a, 3-8
Second Reading: 1 Corinthians 15:1-11
Gospel: Luke 5:1-11

REFLECTION:
Luke’s gospel tells us of the day that Peter heard his call to follow Jesus. He was washing his nets after a discouraging night of fishing when Jesus approached him. A large crowd surrounded Jesus so he stepped into Peter’s boat and asked him to push off from the shore. Seated in the boat Jesus taught the people and then he asked Peter to go out into deeper water and cast his nets. The catch was so abundant that Peter had to call James and John for help. Astonished at these events Peter recognized that Jesus had been sent by God and said, “Depart from me, Lord, for I am a sinful man.” Jesus assured him that there was nothing to fear and not only Peter, but James and John as well, “left everything and followed him.” We may well feel inadequate or unworthy when we recognize opportunities to follow Jesus more closely. We may be afraid when asked to take a stand on a moral issue. We may feel overwhelmed when challenged to make a greater commitment to serving others. Yet Jesus tells us as he told Peter, “Do not be afraid.”

1. When have you felt inadequate to a task or role you were given? How did you respond?
2. When have you been asked to do something you felt might be too hard for you? What did you do?

PRAYER:
Help me, Lord, to be open to your call. Grant me the discernment and courage to do your will. Amen