REFLECTION:
What precipitated the radical response of the first disciples who “left everything and followed” Jesus? Clearly, Jesus’ words and actions. To fishermen who had labored fruitlessly all night, Jesus says try again and leads them to a great catch. To a sinful Peter who considers himself unworthy of Jesus’ company, Jesus says follow me and transforms his life’s purpose. More than one miracle has occurred in this gospel.
- When I feel I have ministered fruitlessly, the words of Jesus I hear are . . .
- When I feel unworthy to be a follower of Jesus, the words of Jesus I hear are . . .
- The miracles Jesus has worked in my life are . . . . . They have moved me to . . .
Connecting the Gospel
to the first reading: There at least two points of contact between the first reading and the gospel. The first is the presentation of Jeremiah and Jesus as prophets who are rejected. The second is God’s promise of protection and deliverance.
to our experience: So much of our contemporary culture is based on what is popular, for example, American Idol, Nielson ratings, political polls, marketing samples, etc. Jesus based his message not on popular reaction but on the truth of God’s word.
Reprinted with permission of Liturgical Press from: Living Liturgy