Can you imagine what it was like to be among Jesus’ first followers? For us at CMMB, we are inspired by the belief and trust our brothers and sisters embodied. We seek to embody our faith just as they did, especially in the moments we feel burdened, confused, or lost.

In today’s Gospel, Simon is among a group of fishermen. Despite spending the whole night with their nets cast, they have not caught any fish. Jesus steps onto Simon’s boat, speaks to the crowd gathered at the shore, then encourages Simon to cast his net once more.

“We have worked hard all night and have caught nothing, but at your command, I will lower the nets,” says Simon.

To Simon’s astonishment, the nets overflowed with fish. It wasn’t long before entire boats were filled and on the verge of sinking.

Jesus explained to Simon, “Do not be afraid; from now on, you will be catching men.”

We can only assume the sight of boats overflowing with fish was miraculous. We hold this image close to us as an example of Jesus’ role in our lives. When we question our path or feel discouraged by our pace, we think back to Simon’s empty nets. With patience and faith, they became bountiful.