The Great Catch of Fish

This meditation is based on a passage for September 27, 2010 in the Daily Lectionary Year 2 from the Book of Common Worship for the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) (1993).

Text: Luke 5:1-11

Reflection and Question: When I was ordained in 1977, my local Pittsburgh region of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) claimed 144,000 members. Now we claim 35,000. I become wistful when I read this story recorded in Matthew, Mark and Luke of the unexpected great catch of fish which sets up Jesus naming Peter as the one who will be catching people. The heavy catch of fish foreshadows a heavy catch of people. All this prompts not only Peter but also James and John to follow Jesus. In contrast, my church and I seem to be in the no catch night. What lesson do you take from this story?

Prayer: Eternal Jesus, our Teacher, open our minds and hearts to Your meaning for us in this story of scarcity and abundance. Like Peter, we are aware of how sinful we are. Assure us, as You did Peter, that You have a role for us in Your work. Amen.