The DEEP is Calling

Thursday of Week 22 in Ordinary Time

Saint Gregory the Great, Pope, Doctor

Luke 5:1-11

Today’s gospel narrates the Lucan Jesus calling his disciples.  It is interesting to see how the gospels differ and to wonder what that speaks.  Because Luke is the great storyteller, the added details serve the “orderly account” he proposes. (1:3)

The whole great catch scene is pure Luke, though a similar post-resurrection story is told in John 21:1-11.  This scene introduces Peter’s character.  His response to Jesus echo’s Mary’s bewilderment.  Peter has been out all night and he is a professional fisherman.  Mary has not known a man.  With their experiences not supporting Jesus claim, they nonetheless follow along.

Jesus invites Peter to “put out in the deep.”  And in Marian style, Peter does, based solely on Jesus’ word. 

Put out in the deep, Jesus calls. 

Don’t stay all comfortable there in the shallows.

I know you like feeling the secure ground beneath your feet

But…the best fish are in the deep.

C’mon…I will hold your hand.