“Master,” Simon replied, “we worked hard all last night and didn’t catch a thing. But if you say so, I’ll let the nets down again.” – Luke 5:5
When Jesus asked Simon to let the nets down again, it seemed like a completely futile and senseless task. It had been a long and frustrating night with nothing to show for and he was tired. Besides, he had just finished cleaning and stowing his nets and now Jesus wanted him to throw them back into the water. Nevertheless, obedient to the divine request, he mustered the strength to lower the nets into the depths once more, all the while grappling with doubt and asking himself why he even bothered. Little did Simon know that this seemingly pointless endeavor held a deeper significance, a profound lesson in faith and trust that would soon unfold before his very eyes.
The author of Psalm 119:60 writes, “I will hurry, without delay, to obey your commands.
Although Simon expressed his doubt and frustration, he responded immediately by doing exactly what Jesus told him to do. And because of his willingness to listen and obey, he was handsomely rewarded with a miraculous catch of fish.
Friends, there will be times in our lives when we feel exhausted, discouraged, and tempted to give up. We may have tried everything in our own strength and power but achieved little or no success. Yet it is precisely in these moments that Jesus invites us to surrender our understanding and put our trust in him.
Obedience requires us to step out in faith, even when it goes against our natural instincts. It challenges us to to let go of self-reliance and instead rely on the wisdom and guidance of our Savior. When we choose to obey Jesus, even in the face of doubt or uncertainty, we position ourselves to witness his power and to experience his blessings.
Just as it was with Simon, obedience can lead to miraculous outcomes and divine interventions in our lives too.
Lead us this day with your faithful hand,
helping us to heed your every command.
Should we wander from your loving way,
We ask for forgiveness. In Your Name we pray,
Amen
Former Blackout Artist 