A Message from Fr. Jay
Dear Friends,
Each of the three readings this weekend involves a vocation story. The first reading about Isaiah, second reading about Paul and the gospel about Peter. Among all these stories, the calling of Peter in Luke’s gospel is an interesting and special one, as it is linked with the miracle of ‘great haul of fish’!
Before Jesus called him, Peter heard about Jesus being a powerful preacher, a healer, and a friendly young man. Although Peter didn’t know him well, Jesus visited his house and healed his mother-in-law. Peter was doing his usual chores on the seashore, washing nets, cleaning his boats, and probably a little frustrated about not catching enough fish. When he learned that Jesus needed a boat to be his ‘pulpit’ to preach, he gladly gave his boat and listened to His preaching for the first time. It is likely that Peter could barely remember a time he visited a synagogue, but he was deeply impacted by Jesus’ preaching. Peter listened to Jesus who seemed to be just a young man, not sure of His fishing knowledge or skills. As a result, the truth is revealed! Peter starts to realize that Jesus is the Messiah and finally Peter is fished by Jesus!
In all the three stories, humility plays a big role in becoming a prophet or an apostle of Jesus:
- Isaiah: I am a man of unclean lips (1st Reading)
- Paul: I am the least of the apostles, not fit to be called an apostle (2nd Reading)
- Peter: Depart from me Lord for I am a sinful man (Gospel)
Humility commissions dedication and that too, out of gratitude. Humility leads to service and sacrifice.
As a Catholic, I believe that I have received the vocation of the Lord. If so, what is my humility? How do I express my humility? Do I draft myself into service and sacrifice for others, especially for the poor and needy ones?
Next week in the Narthex, you will find tables with more information about two of our ministries:
St. John XXIII Thrift Store
St. John XXIII Outreach Ministry
Your prayerful consideration to become disciples under these ministries are great opportunities to practice humility and bring joy to yourselves and to others.
God Bless,
Fr. Jay Raju
Reading 1: Isaiah 6:1-2a, 3-8
Reading 2: 1 Corinthians 15:1-11
Gospel: Luke 5: 1-11
