Revd Sara’s Reflection Sunday 9th February 2025
Opening Prayer
Holy Lord, be with me this day, in my singing, praying and meditating. and as I meet with you, and in all that I do, bless and encourage me this day. When all around is noisy and busy, help me in this moment to be still with you. When my mind is chaotic and full of wondering, help me in this moment to be sure of you. When my soul is troubled, help me in this moment to be calmed by you. Silence
If you feel able speak these words aloud:
Still, calm and sure I come to worship you. Amen.
Bible Reading: Luke 5:1-11
Today’s gospel reading continues our journey through the first part of Luke’s gospel. In today’s reading we encounter the compelling scene of Jesus calling his first disciples at the Sea of Galilee.
The story begins with Jesus stepping into Simon Peter’s boat, asking him to put out a little from the shore. Jesus then teaches the crowds from this floating pulpit. After speaking, He instructs Simon to head out into deep water, and let down the nets for a catch. Simon’s response is hesitant but obedient; despite their previous failed attempts, he trusts in Jesus’ command. Is this a helpful or challenging reminder for you today? Are you in the midst of a time when it feels like you are in ‘deep waters’ or finding it difficult to trust in God? What might it look like for you to step out in faith today?
When the nets are cast, they become so full of fish that they begin to break. This miracle is not just a sign of Jesus’ power but a metaphor for the abundance of God’s grace. Can you think of a time when you’ve experienced something of God’s, generous response – the divine’s ability to go above and beyond.
Simon Peter’s reaction to the miraculous catch is a mixture of awe and fear; he falls at Jesus’ knees, overwhelmed by his own unworthiness. Jesus’ reply, ‘Do not be afraid; from now on you will fish for people’ shifts Peter’s perspective from his limitations to his potential. It is a change of mindset, brought about by grace. In our journey of discipleship, fear and a sense of inadequacy can often hold us back. Reflect on how Jesus’ invitation to move beyond fear has played out in your own journey. How has God’s grace transformed your fears into a calling?
Finally, the passage concludes with the fishermen pulling their boats up on shore, leaving everything, and following Jesus. This radical act of abandonment for the sake of the Gospel is a powerful testament to the transformative impact of encountering Jesus. As you consider your own path of discipleship, think about what you are called to leave behind in order to follow Jesus more fully. What nets or boats – whether they be comfort zones, previous identities, or material concerns – might you need to abandon to fully embrace the life God is calling you to lead?
What was the first step of faith you remember taking? Or the most recent? What will be the next step?
What do you need to pray about to help you make this step?
Go gently love and prayers Revd Sara
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