READ: LUKE 5: 1-11
When he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, “Now go out to where it is deeper and let down your nets, and you will catch many fish.
I truly enjoy fishing. Though I have been fishing since my youth, I have never felt the need to purchase an electronic fish finder. Instead, I have relied upon experience and the wisdom of other anglers to teach me how to locate productive spots. Like all fisherman, I have at times reeled in fish after fish and at others have been totally skunked. While knowing were to fish is central to the process, other factors such as weather, water conditions, type of bait, and fishing method contributes to success or failure. In short, I do my best to be prepared for success on the water. (Thankfully my ability to provide for my family does not depend on fishing!)
Life reminds me of fishing. You have to plan where you expend your time, effort, resources and energy to be successful. Take my grandson Isaac for example; when he graduated high school, he had no specific career path he wanted to pursue. We prayed for him as he elected to take a gap year away from education and found employment in a local supermarket. After months of washing dishes and other menial tasks, he realized he needed to consider a more productive career. He chose to pursue a degree in physical therapy and, as God so often plans it, found himself going to the same college as his older brother. This school is widely known for its excellent physical therapy program. He focused on his future and has done exceptionally well- prayers answered by Jesus the fish finder! (He will graduate in the Spring of 2025 with a Doctorate in Physical Therapy.)
Jesus had to point out the location for Simon, John, and James for successful fishing. This account demonstrates the need for each of us to employ Christ as our directional indicator in all aspects of life. They, like most of us, often relied upon their own instincts to produce lives of meaning and value, only to end up in dry fishing holes. Yes not, finding fish can teach us to plan better and be more productive, but many times it simply frustrates us leaving us angry, dissatisfied and going off in another empty net direction. Acknowledging Christ, as Peter came to do, is the is the only way to keep you on track to find a life of meaning, value and satisfaction.
PAUSE FOR REFLECTION AND PRAYER
Finding meaning and purpose for your life requires seeking Biblical wisdom and guidance. But above all, it mandates that your turn to Jesus and let him guide you to your ultimate productive fishing grounds.
Dear Jesus, please show me where to let down my nets of life to your glory and honor.