Did you know that Simon Peter had a successful fishing business before he became one of Jesus disciples? In fact, he was involved in a fishing conglomerate; his partners were James and John.
They had been out fishing one night and came back empty handed. Their boats were on the shore line and they were cleaning their nets before they called it a day.
Jesus was there too. He was just starting in the ministry that God had designed for him. It had only been a matter of days or perhaps weeks, since He had been baptized in the Jordan River by John the Baptist. People were recognizing that He was different; He had compassion and His teachings were like none they had ever heard. So on this day Jesus was being followed by people who wanted to hear him speak.
He saw the two boats and asked if he could get in one and speak to the people for a little ways out on the water. When Jesus finished speaking he looked at Simon and told him to go out to the deeper water and let down his nets.
Now Simon, the experienced fisherman, knew that late morning was really not a good time to fish. However, he did what Jesus said and caught the biggest load of fish he had ever encountered. It was a net breaking, boat sinking load of fish. He called to his partners and had them bring their boat to help handle the catch.
Amazing! This was the most successful day of their fishing careers. Never had they seen one like it.
Simon was overwhelmed, one verse says he was awestruck. He realized that Jesus was a special man of God and he felt unworthy to be in His presence.
“When Simon Peter realized what had happened, he fell to his knees before Jesus and said, “Oh, Lord, please leave me—I’m such a sinful man.” 9 For he was awestruck by the number of fish they had caught, as were the others with him. 10 His partners, James and John, the sons of Zebedee, were also amazed. Jesus replied to Simon, “Don’t be afraid! From now on you’ll be fishing for people!” 11 And as soon as they landed, they left everything and followed Jesus.” Luke 5:8-11 NLT
Some people think that they have to be at rock bottom to reach out to the Lord. Simon’s story is completely opposite. This was their best day; their biggest catch. Record breaking. And then came the big question “come fish for people”. I love the way the verse puts it, “as soon as they landed, they left everything and followed Jesus”.
Simon and his partners realized that it was Jesus who was responsible for their success that day. He was the influence that changed the circumstances. They were excited to leave all and follow Him.
A New Year lays ahead. I encourage you to follow Jesus whole-heartedly. He is the giver of abundant life and all good things come from Him.