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Daily Worship

January 26 | Luke 5:1-11

Elaine Pierce

Updated: Jan 27


 

DAILY READING


 

REFLECTION

 

Fishing Expert

By Elaine Pierce


I would think that it would be awfully hard to pay attention to Jesus' advice about where to catch fish. After all, Simon and his fellow fishermen were experienced at their trade: they knew the best waters in which to catch fish. Jesus is a Rabbi, for heaven's sake! What does he know about fishing?


But look at Simon Peter's response: "Master, we've worked hard all night and haven't caught anything. But because you say so, I will let down the nets (v. 6)." Even though he doesn't understand - in fact, he's almost certain Jesus is wrong - he obeys him. He doesn't know what Jesus knows, but he knows enough to trust him. Now, we'll see later in Luke times when Peter and the disciples totally miss Jesus' point, and they fail to follow him, but this story, early in Jesus' ministry, offers us insight into who Jesus is. And why he is worth following.


After they catch an extraordinary amount of fish (which is almost frightening - see verse 8), they do an amazing thing: "So they pulled their boats up on shore, left everything and followed him" (v. 11). They didn't just admire Jesus' fishing skills. They knew that he was different, and that he had plans for them - to catch people instead of fish! This fishing expedition changed their lives once and for all. Yes, they had moments of doubt and times of struggle, but they became Jesus followers and life would never be the same.


I'm sure most of you have read C. S. Lewis' brilliant children's book, The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. Mr. Beaver tells the children about Aslan. They haven't met him but they are curious:


“Aslan is a lion- the Lion, the great Lion." "Ooh" said Susan. "I'd thought he was a man. Is he-quite safe? I shall feel rather nervous about meeting a lion"..."Safe?" said Mr. Beaver ..."Who said anything about safe? 'Course he isn't safe. But he's good. He's the King, I tell you.”


Aslan is the Christ figure, and like Jesus, he is not safe, not at all. But he's good, and He's the King of the Universe. And he is asking you and me to follow him and trust him. Let's make 2025 the year we trust, follow, and act in obedience to his call.


PRAYER


Lord, you ask us to follow you, and we are afraid. We trust in ourselves more than in you. Help us to give up our selfish desires and trust that you have plans far better than any we could earn on our own. We want to be your disciples today, tomorrow, and every day. Amen.



 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR


ELAINE PIERCE

It is a delight and joy to write Sunday's UALC Blog post. I have been a UALC member for 20+ years and I value our community of believers. I draw strength from God's Word, and it is my hope that you join me in seeking to grow closer to Him as we read, study, and pray together. I've been married to Gene for 47 years, and we have four grown children and nine grandchildren. It is an exciting time to be alive, and I count it all joy to serve him, even in the midst of challenges. To God be the glory, for the great things he is doing!


 

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4 comentários


Convidado:
26 de jan.

Great message Elaine! May we trust and obey for there is no other way!

Blessings!

Curtir

Convidado:
26 de jan.

YES! Just simple, honest, good and faithful advice.

Curtir

Convidado:
26 de jan.

That's the struggle right? Being willing to let go of what we think we know and follow. Thanks for the reminder that while it may not feel safe, He is good -Oh so good.

Curtir

David Thompson
26 de jan.

Great devotional, Elaine. God does have a plan for each of us.

Curtir
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