Expert

Referencing Luke 5:1-11

Do you consider yourself an expert at something? Perhaps “expert” doesn’t fit well. How about skilled, professional, or you know without a shadow of doubt that you have authority in a particular area? Reflect on the trials you have experienced to become better; concentrate on the amount of time—months, years, decades—it took you to fully grasp and understand. Envision yourself knee-deep in it now. You’re fatigued from failure and uphill battles. Your family and friends are frustrated with you or have distanced themselves as a result of your overtime and moodiness. After a long season, you have little to show for your efforts.

Someone approaches. Perhaps this person has not yet gained “friend” status. They’re  an acquaintance. You’ve seen them around, but their interests are nothing like your own. From what you can tell, their network has nothing to offer you. How would you react to them asking: “Why don’t you move over and we can do this together?”

Would your thoughts sound like:

·         The audacity!

·         Do they not know what it takes to do what I do?

·         These are my tools. They haven’t invested the money and time I have into this, and they think they can just take the reins?

·         If someone sees them helping me, everyone will think I don’t know what I’m doing.

·         They’re clearly looking for something. They probably need money or are trying to weasel into my friend group.

Did any of these resonate? Maybe more than one of these thoughts were relatable.

 In Luke 5, we see an example of this lived out during Jesus’ ministry. Jesus was a carpenter by trade, whereas Simon Peter was a fisherman—his livelihood depended on night shifts, physical challenges against the elements, and the pressure of not only catching enough fish to feed his family, but also enough to earn a steady income. As much as you can imagine the frustration and disappointment of Simon Peter coming ashore empty-handed, it’s just as easy to relate to the possible frustration he had when Jesus suggested getting back in his boat with Him. Yet, through potential fatigue and frustration, Simon Peter showed faith in his new friend and threw his nets back into deep water. Luke recorded that Simon Peter caught so many fish in his boat that day, his nets began to break. He had to call for help from those nearby.

Where are you clinging too tightly on your own? Have you been faithful to let Jesus into your “boat” and direct you? How have you been obedient, or do you need to seek repentance? What areas of life could Jesus change?

Let’s pray…

Lord, search my heart. Please forgive me for times when I have doubted Your wisdom to guide me in what I am going through. When I am tempted to be frustrated with those around me, or not have faith in Your plan, help me to set aside my pride and remember Simon Peter’s obedience. May I, like Your disciples, be willing to leave anything to follow You. Thank You for blessing Your followers and for the mercy You have graciously gifted to us. Amen.

Taylor Newton