Fifth Sunday after the Epiphany
The Call to Catch People
In Luke 5, we find the starting point for the incredible ministry of Simon Peter. What a great story! Jesus got into Peter’s boat and told him to put the boat out into the water so he could teach the crowd. After teaching, Jesus told Peter to fish. Peter and his fellow fishermen caught two boatloads. Peter, realizing he was in the presence of the Holy One, felt unworthy and fearful. Jesus told Peter to not be afraid and gave him a life-changing purpose: “From now on you will fish for people.” Peter left everything and followed Jesus.
The theme for Peter fishing for people continued through the Gospels. Peter joined the other disciples when Jesus sent them out to preach the Kingdom of God was near. Jesus designated Peter as the one on whom he would build his church. Peter was on the mountain with the other disciples when Jesus gave his Great Commission: “Go and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19).
We see Peter fishing for people throughout the book of Acts. He preached on the day of Pentecost and thousands accepted Jesus. God gave Peter the vision that the Kingdom of God was for everyone.
Yet Jesus’ call to fish for people is not just for Peter. It is for each of us! Who provides instructions on how to do this fishing? Peter! His letters to the churches tell us to have a sincere love for each other, to live good lives so others will see and glorify God, and to always be prepared to give an answer to the hope we have in Jesus.
For some, Jesus’ purpose for us to bring others to him is easy. For others, it is difficult, and we may feel unworthy and fearful. Yet always remember what Jesus said to Peter: “Do not be afraid” (Luke 5:10). May we accept God’s call to catch people. May many people through our witness come to the Lord and experience the incredible difference Jesus makes in lives. May we also experience the difference in our walk with the Lord when we help build his Kingdom.
Doug Rights, pastor, King Moravian Church
King, North Carolina