“When he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, “Put out into deep water, and let down the nets for a catch.” 5 Simon answered, “Master, we’ve worked hard all night and haven’t caught anything. But because you say so, I will let down the nets.” Luke 5.4-5
Have you ever been swimming or snorkeling in the ocean, looked down into the water, and realized the ocean floor is so deep it’s impossible to see the bottom? It gives me the creeps, and I really don’t enjoy it whatsoever. That kind of deep water is only for sharks and sea creatures, if you ask me!
Jesus was with His disciples on the Sea of Galilee, teaching a large crowd—hundreds or thousands—by standing in a boat. Many people were watching and listening. After Jesus finished speaking (yes, preachers, even Jesus took a break from preaching!), He turned to Simon, a fisherman He was drawing as a disciple, and said, “Let’s go fishing! Put out into deep water.”
Simon knew what he was doing. He was an experienced fisherman who had caught nothing all night. So when Jesus said, “Put out into deep water and let down the nets for a catch,” Simon politely replied, “Master, we’ve already worked hard all night and haven’t caught anything.” Imagine what he was thinking—this prophet, teacher, and preacher Jesus thought He knew more about fishing than the pros? Come on, Jesus!
“But because You say so,” Simon Peter replied, “I will let down the nets.” We’ll cover the amazing results of that cast next time, but it goes without saying that because of Jesus’ request and Peter’s response, extraordinary things happened in the deep water. If Jesus hadn’t prompted Simon Peter to act in faith and take the boats out again, no miracle would have occurred. And if Simon Peter hadn’t obeyed, he wouldn’t have experienced the incredible grace of God’s power and love.
I often feel like I’m swimming in deep water in life and ministry. Jesus is asking me to lead in ways that are unfamiliar, uncomfortable, and a bit risky. I try to discern whether it’s His voice or my own desire to grow this ministry. It’s a give-and-take, a process of trial and error, a journey of trust and letting go of control. But I can be reassured, as can you, that if we are walking with Christ and He calls us to a task, we are to do it if it aligns with His will and brings Him glory.
What is Christ imploring you to do that will allow you to cast your net into deep waters by His grace and for His glory?
“O Lord God, I hear You, and I am listening. Even if I fail, my intent is to bring You glory and spread Your fame. I love You, Lord, and thank You for involving me in Your work in these ‘deep waters.’ Come now, Holy Spirit, guide me and help me follow in obedience. For you are good and your love endures forever.” Amen