The Joy of the Fisherman

Peter’s impulse was right and his application was wrong. In Luke 5 when the catch of fish was breaking their nets his own pride was broken. Next to Jesus, the Holy One with more-than-human knowledge, Peter confessed his sinfulness. He wanted Jesus to go away from him. Practically, did Peter expect Jesus just to step out of the boat? More seriously, Peter did not grasp Jesus’ purpose.

Sinners should recognize their sinfulness. We are all sinners (Romans 3:23), and anyone who says he isn’t makes God a liar (1 John 1:10). And if God wanted nothing to do with sinners, He has the power, and the justification, to stay far away.

Jesus came to seek and save the lost (Luke 19:10). Jesus came like a physician for the sick: “I have not come to call the righteous but sinners to repentance” (Luke 5:31-32).

We need this reminder because 1) we get the idea that our sin is beyond what Jesus can deal with. And/or 2) we get the idea that another’s sin is beyond what Jesus can deal with.

It’s like saying, “I know He’s a fisherman, but have you seen me? I’m a fish!” Right. Exactly. Jesus was a fisher of men, knowing full well what sort of stink He’d be dealing with.

So we rejoice that He’s caught us in His net of grace. We rejoice that He’s called us to catch others with good news. We rejoice that we do not need to be afraid. The joy of the Fisherman is our strength.