Followers of Jesus

Luke 5:1-11

Luke's version of the calling of the first disciples is a bit different than some of the other gospels, and the the difference in this case is particularly insightful. Rather than Jesus simply issuing an invitation, Luke portrays a conversation that takes place between Simon/Peter and Jesus.  This conversation is quite revealing about the nature of discipleship and who Jesus calls to be his followers.

As Peter is cleaning out his nets after an unproductive day of fishing he is told by Jesus to go back out: "put out into the deep water and let down your nets for a catch." (5:4)  Now remember, Peter was an experienced fisherman who knew how to catch fish and had just finished a long night of fishing. He was probably tired and frustrated. Then Jesus, who he does not know, shows up and tells him to go back out?  With an initial protest, Peter goes back out and catches so many fish he can not haul them all in. Once Peter realizes the miracle that has just taken place and the power of Jesus he immediately fell to Jesus' knees saying: "Go away from me Lord, for I am a sinful man." (5:7) Peter believes that he is unworthy of even being near Jesus, but Jesus tells him that from now on he will be catching people not fish.

This call story illustrates a common misunderstanding about the criteria to be a follower of Jesus. Peter believes that because he is a sinner he is unworthy. But we are all sinners and all unworthy. If Jesus only called perfect people, no one could be his follower! But Jesus calls you and me and all people to follow him. What is required and what Peter did demonstrate is trust. Peter trusted Jesus and went back out into the sea. He trusted when he had plenty of reasons to doubt or dismiss Jesus. Righteousness is a behavioral condition and trust is a heart condition. Jesus wants our hearts and forgives our lack of rigtheousness.  To be a follower of Jesus requires our trust and our willingness to follow him even when there are plenty of reasons to doubt.

It is normal to feel unworthy to follow Jesus--we all are. What is most important is not how we feel about our worth before God, but how God's amazing love and grace is given to us and how that makes all the difference. Believe. Trust. Follow.