08-Feb-2024 – Do you have faith to try again?
Now when he had left speaking, he said unto Simon, Launch out into the deep, and let down your nets for a draught. -Luke 5:4
In this familiar scenario, a professional fisherman, well-versed in the tactics of fishing, along with other experts, toiled throughout the night but failed to catch a single fish. Now, a religious teacher, who had never cast a net in his life, advises the professionals to go deeper and cast their nets.
In that situation, were I present, I might feel irritated. However, recognizing the religious teacher’s lack of experience in fishing, I would politely convey, “Sir, we dedicated the entire night to this effort, but unfortunately, it yielded no results. Your understanding of this business might be limited, but I appreciate your concern. Nevertheless, thank you for your suggestion.”
However, Peter did not react in that manner. Why? Prior to this incident, Peter had already witnessed the miracles performed by Jesus Christ. In his own house, Jesus had healed Peter’s mother-in-law. Peter had seen Jesus teaching in the synagogue of Capernaum, and the entire village was abuzz with talk about Jesus. While Peter could have chosen to respect Jesus merely as a teacher and a prophet, he specifically states, “Nevertheless, at thy word I will let down the net.” This demonstrates a sense of submission in the face of seemingly obvious and experientially known challenging situations.
I recall John 4, where Jesus tells the woman, “If you knew the gift of God and who is asking you for water…”. It seems unlikely that Peter fully comprehended who Jesus truly was at that point. However, what stands out is Peter’s immediate response after the miraculous catch of fish. In that moment, he quickly grasped the divinity of Jesus and acknowledged his own sinfulness.
In today’s reflection, our focus is on a scenario where, despite exhausting all efforts to achieve a goal, we face utter failure. The question is, if God encourages us to try again, will we have the faith to do so? Will the memory of past physical failures overpower us, or will our faith in the supernatural abilities of God prevail? This contemplation encourages us to consider that God desires our success in the very same area where we once failed.
Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, I express gratitude for Your love and grace. Thank you for caring for me and being willing to supernaturally prepare a successful environment in the same area where I previously failed. Grant me the ability to heed Your calling and demonstrate my submission through my actions. I offer this prayer in the name of my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen!
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