Two weeks after the Lord’s resurrection, the disciples decide to go back to what they used to do, fishing.
They leave Jerusalem and go back up north to the Sea of Tiberius. They’re under the impression that the Lord’s appearances are over, and now they have to sweat it out and earn a living.
Could they have already forgotten what the Lord had told them: “I will make you fishers of men”? It seems so.
“Set out into the deep.”
Those experienced fishermen set sail that night with the dream of filling their nets. But at dawn their nets are empty. It seems that Peter has quickly forgotten the Lord’s words, “Set out into the deep”!
What happened to Peter often happens to us! We’ve had some great experiences with Jesus: Baptism, First Holy Communion, Confirmation, Marriage, Ordination. We hear the Lord say to us, “Cast your nets on the right side, and you will find fish.”
But it seems we do what the Apostles did; we return to what we used to do before, looking for a little happiness right where we know we will not find it, because we will never find greater happiness than what we find in Christ himself.
Jesus doesn’t leave Peter alone.
After a wearisome night, Peter finds happiness once again. Everything is made clear! Night is over once John tells him that the one on the shore is the Lord. John sees him, but Peter doesn’t.
Why doesn’t Peter recognize Jesus even though they both heard the same voice? They all heard it. Did Jesus and John make a plan to help Peter?
No. The truth is that John was living a deeper spiritual life. He was able to discover the Lord’s presence because he was listening spiritually.
Sometimes our boasts may be empty…
The Church gives us this Easter season to reflect on our new life in Christ. Some-times our boats may be empty, but we can tap into his power and he will fill them.
How? The best way is right here in the Mass. The boat was empty until Jesus came on the scene. He told them to cast the nets, and the apostles responded.
In the Mass, Jesus calls us to come and receive him. And like the apostles, we have to acknowledge our need for him.
There’s a moment when the priest holds up the Body and Blood of Christ, and says: “Be-hold the Lamb of God. Behold him who takes away the sins of the world. Blessed are those called to the supper of the Lamb.”
And everyone responds: “Lord, I am not worthy that you should enter under my roof, but only say the word and my soul shall be healed.”
In other words, “Lord, without you my boat is empty. I’m not worthy to receive you, but please heal me and fill me with your loving mercy.” And He will.
Today and every day, ask the Lord to help you keep your eyes on him. Ask him to help you listen to his voice. Amen.