Source: Neo Jeremiah Voice of the Young Prophet Newsletter (February 7, 2016 issue)
“When Jesus Christ works in us, He really does it without hesitation. Our status in the society is not His standard. What matters most for him is the willingness of one’s heart, a heart that is willing to change so that He can get in and live in that person?
Our Gospel today talks about the calling of the First Disciples of Jesus Christ. We observed that these people were fishermen but still chosen by Jesus for a greater mission – to become fishers of men. As we knew from their responses at the very first moment, they did not have an affirmative response especially Simon Peter. Instead, he told Jesus that he was not worthy because he was a sinner but Jesus Christ did not forgo of them. Jesus Christ successfully made than His first disciples and then later on in their lives became Apostles.
It is truly difficult to follow Jesus Christ in our time today because it takes many challenges such as leaving our comfort zones in life and facing the risks. Like in the Gospel, when Jesus Christ revealed to me, I was doubting and pushing Him away. I did it because I knew that I was not worthy of Him. I did lots of mistakes and sins in my life. Having that decision, I continued my life living according to my desires and wants until I caught myself longing for someone. I realized that I was not with Jesus anymore because as can be seen in chosen lifestyle. I was at that very moment seemed worthless and was prejudged by many people including my parents and some of my friends. I felt that I was less important in the society. During that time, I was hoping and praying that Jesus would talk to me and invite me again to be with His journey.
In the later part of my life, I was surprised because I heard again his Divine voice. Jesus Christ asked me again if still I am willing to become one of those fishers of men. As I reflected on Jesus’ invitation for the second time, finally I surrendered myself and told Him that His plan for me will be done. I took the risk and left my comfort zones. For me, that was the most painful decision in my life but I did not regret it because I have my Lord Jesus Christ who is willing to change me and bless me again so that according to His will, time will come, I will become a worthy “fisherman” just like Simon Peter.
To my fellow followers of Jesus Christ, when Jesus invites you to be one of those to become fishers of men in this time, take it as a blessing because He needs you very much. Remember that to be with Jesus, in His boat, sailing and fishing is a great opportunity. All you have to do is to leave everything and risk your life for Him because Jesus himself is already the BIG catch of our lives.