Going Fishing

Gospel: Luke 5: 1-11

Anyone who has ever gone fishing knows the enterprise is utterly unpredictable.  One day could be very successful with a large catch of fish, while another day will yield nary a bite.  Success cannot be predicted in advance, nor can any meaningful planning for such be undertaken.  Even the most seasoned anglers will be frustrated at a day of no catches, and great rejoicing ensues at a great catch of fish or at the catch of a very large one.  It is the nature of things in the world of fishing.

In today's Gospel portion the disciples spend all night fishing without success.  We can hear and appreciate the frustration and disappointment in Peter's voice when he explains this to Jesus.  In spite of this night of failure, Jesus tells him to try one more time.  Overcoming his fatigue and incredulity, Peter and the others try one more time, and they catch so much fish they are stunned.  They see in this event a sign that has them put their faith in Jesus.

A good fisherman has faith in good times and in bad.  The angler's faith is not dependent on the whims of the fish but on a complete acceptance of whatever takes place on the waters.  So it must be in our life of faith.  We are graced with blessed moments of success that are often rare, and God is present in those moments to be sure.  But God is also present in the moments of drought and lack of success.  Authentic faith is present in both moments.