With Jesus disappointment becomes stepping stone to Hope

DAILY SPIRITUAL ENERGISER: 1 Cor. 3:18-23, Lk. 5:1-11. The disappointments of life can come in various forms, especially when we set out plans to achieve things in our way. But what is important is the ability to cope with them, with a firm hope in the promises of the Lord. Today's first reading prepares our minds for such hope as man's thinking and ways are at variance with that of God. It must have been a great disappointment to Simon and his co-fishermen that they caught no fish as narrated in today's Gospel. This disappointment was even more palpable since fishing was their only means of livelihood. With the presence of Jesus, disappointment and hopelessness becomes stepping stone to hope.

As we begin the activities of the day, let us put our trust in God no matter the circumstance. It was hard for the professional fishermen like Peter and his companions to listen to stranger, especially when they were exhausted and discouraged by labouring in vain the whole night. Yet in faith, they cast their net again and are rewarded with a miraculous catch of fish. It was a crucial moment in the whole life of Peter that in this event Jesus gave him a preview of the great harvest of souls he would be winning. Jesus enters into our life especially when we are exhausted and dispirited and encourages us to resume our work.

May the Lord give us the serenity to accept the things we cannot change and the courage to change the things we can! Amen!! Good morning and peace be with you!!!

Revd Fr Samuel Frederick.