Today’s readings from Isaiah and Luke’s Gospel contain similar themes. Isaiah describes in lofty imagery how he is overwhelmed as he envisions the Lord upon His high throne in all His Holiness and Glory and being praised by the heavenly angels (Seraphim). Isaiah then recognizes his unworthiness (sinfulness) to stand in God’s presence. But the Lord has a remedy for one who recognizes his sinfulness. Isaiah’s sin is removed, and he responds to the Lord’s call to be sent as His messenger (prophet), “Here I am,” I said, “send me!” In Luke’s Gospel reading, it is Simon Peter who, along with James and John, experience a similar transformation. Having fished all night with no success, Jesus tells them to fish deeper and lower their nets. Simon Peter obeys Jesus despite being highly doubtful it will do any good. But their overwhelming catch was astonishing! Peter then recognized his sinfulness in doubting the Lord and, like Isaiah, his unworthiness to be in Jesus’ presence. The Lord had truly worked a miracle. But Jesus tells Peter, “Do not be afraid, from now on you will be catching men.” Peter and his fishing partners “left everything and followed him.”
There is a strong message for each of us in these readings. Do we sometimes turn away from the Lord because we think we are unworthy to be in His presence? Or that we are unfit to follow Him in true discipleship because of our past sins or failings? Yet these readings make it clear that God never turns away from us. He is always there inviting us to take up our crosses, whatever they may be, and follow Him. And our Catholic faith offers the Sacrament of Reconciliation to also help us re-connect with God’s mercy, love and forgiveness. But the point is, our Lord Jesus is always present in our lives, calling us to trust in Him. How do we act on that trust? Do we bravely say, “here I am, Lord, send me”? When Jesus calls will we bring our “boats to the shore” and place God at the center of our lives?
Reflection by Parishioner Dale Gerber