Ordinary Time

Pause

He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake.

Psalm 23:3 (New King James Version)

Listen

He said, “Cast your net on the right side of the boat and you will find some.”

So they did, and there were so many fish that they couldn’t haul in the net. Then the disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, “It’s the Lord!” When Simon Peter heard it was the Lord, he wrapped his coat around himself (for he was naked) and jumped into the water. The other disciples followed in the boat, dragging the net full of fish, for they weren’t far from shore, only about one hundred yards.

John 21:6-8

Think

Both the physical and spiritual strength of the disciples always surprise and inspire me. After a night of hard and fruitless labor, they do not complain or refuse to follow this suggestion to keep fishing. How easy it would have been to listen to their tired and aching bodies instead! Thankfully, they don’t and are immediately rewarded for their trust with a miraculous catch. Without any doubt, John joyfully declares that it is the Lord calling from the shore; and without hesitation, Peter does everything in his power to get to Jesus.

These examples of brave and bold discipleship, recorded thousands of years ago, still contain more than enough power to inspire readers today to lives of sacrifice for our Savior. While such a life requires both physical and spiritual sacrifice, our Lord blesses those bold enough to pursue this life of discipleship with joy.

Sarah Boatwright

Pray

Never stop calling to me, O Savior. Strengthen me that I may follow you and your commandments bravely and boldly. Amen.

Go

Forsake foolishness and live, and go in the way of understanding.

Proverbs 9:6 (New King James Version)