Scripture - Luke 5:4
Our Lord spoke to the hearts of discouraged, disappointed and disillusioned disciples.
Though they were weary and worn from fishing all night and having caught nothing, they were obedient to Jesus’ command to try again. As Christians, we need not make promises. That is, we need not resolve to become new at the beginning of each New Year. We have already been made new (2 Corinthians 5:17). We need not resolve to begin every 365 days making promises we do not intend to keep just so we can impress God or people. God knows the intents of our hearts, and He knows we will not keep some of the promises we make.
Nevertheless, we should resolve to start where we are and use what we have to do whatever He is calling us to do. We should read His Word and learn what it is He has entrusted in us. We should know it, do it to the best of our ability, and be sure that what we want is what He wants for us. We should do all things to the glory of God. Resolve to take another look at the cross and the empty tomb, pondering “the Gift” and its cost. Look at the price tag and consider what God paid for our eternal life! Resolve if you must, but resolve to work to become worth of the price. One songwriter expressed it this way: “I want to be a worthy vessel of God’s redeeming love.” Stop and ponder again the cost. Compare the rewards. Once we take a closer look at Calvary, we will never be the same.
Helen Keller once said, “The only thing worse than being blind is having sight and no vision.”
When launching out into the deep, one should consider setting goals, staying tuned to God’s leadership, confronting and conquering old fears and past failures. You can start by looking into old mirrors and seeing a brand new creature. Devote your life to something greater than yourself. We should keep a “thou art with me” attitude (Psalm 23:4).
Are you ready to launch out into the deep? Let down your net and receive your draught! Start where you are, use what you have and do the best you can.
Pray for Pastors everywhere. Remember noontime prayer, we become one at "The Altar." Pray now for world peace. For we know not what tomorrow will bring.
— Catherine Raphael
