Luke 5:1 – 11
Verse two tells us that Jesus “saw” two ships standing by the lake. That is when we first become aware that Jesus was SEEKING a way to speak to a throng of people that were surrounding him and blocking others in their eagerness to hear the Good New of Jesus’ Teachings. Jesus was SEEKING and still seeks today to find those who are willing to provide “a way”. Jesus prayed (or strongly desired of Simon Peter and his men) that they would sail the boat out and away from the land. In this way, the large, pressing throng of people were all able to see Jesus and hear Jesus’ teachings. Thank goodness Simon and his men were listening!
Verses four and five speak to our human condition. This verse parallels with how difficult it can be when we have worked so hard to sharpen our skills, and develop a strong work ethic, even fishing all night, and still yet our nets come up empty. One of the messages here is……When you have tried and failed, don’t give up! Listen! Our Father in heaven is omnipotent (He has unlimited power). Because Simon Peter was listening when Jesus said, “Let down your net,” a marvelous event occurred! They enclosed a great multitude of fish, and their net broke! In other words, God’s timing is perfect and we need to be listening for it.
Are we worthy? Verse seven show us that there were so many fish that they filled both ships, and those ships were so full that they began to sink! That is when Simon Peter fell at Jesus’ knees saying, “Depart from me; for I am a Sinful man, O Lord”. Peter knew his human condition. He also knew that he had just witnessed God’s incredible, miraculous power. But, most of all, he realized that God’s ways and his timing are higher than our human understanding and abilities.
In verse ten, Jesus reassures Simon Peter and his men that they were both chosen and worthy to “catch men” (Share the Gospel to a world that is so in need of a Savior)!