I am unworthy, but God makes me.

   

Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time

09 February 2025

 

First Reading: Is 6:1-2a, 3-8

Responsorial Psalm: Ps 138:1-2, 2-3, 4-5, 7-8

Second Reading: 1 Cor 15:1-11

Gospel: Lk 5:1-11

 

Reflection

By: Bro. Emerson C. Maala

 

Last year, we had our 30-day Ignatian retreat at Sacred Heart Novitiate in Quezon City. it is an intensive spiritual retreat conducted in silence, where we engage ourselves in prayer, meditation, Gospel contemplation, and discernment. One of the Gospels we contemplated was the call of Peter and Andrew in the Gospel according to Luke.

Looking back at my journal, I remember how I was able to be in the shoes of Peter. There, Jesus told me to cast off the net even though we caught nothing overnight. Then I was surprised to catch so many with the commands of Jesus and there, I recognized Jesus as my Lord, and savior saying, "I am a sinful man, and I am not worthy to be with You." At that moment, I was ashamed of Jesus. I am nothing before Him. However, He still calls me.

In the Gospel, Peter is struck by the realization of who Jesus is upon seeing the miraculous catch. He falls to his knees and exclaims: "Depart from me, Lord, for I am a sinful man!" Why does Peter feels unworthy? Because encountering God's holiness always reveals our own sinfulness. But instead of leaving Peter, Jesus calls him to a mission: "Do not be afraid; from now on you will be fishers of men."

Like Peter, we often feel unworthy of God's calling. "I'm not holy enough." "I've made too many mistakes." "I don't know enough about my faith." But Jesus does not call the qualified - He qualifies the called. However, if we respond to Him in faith, He will transform our weaknesses into strengths so that we can respond to Him fully, leave everything behind, and follow Him. Amen.

Prayer

Lord Jesus, You called Peter and Andrew to be fishers of men and lead them into new life with You. Unworthy of Your call, make us also fishers of men and leave everything behind to follow You and serve You. For the greater Glory of God. Amen.