Do Not Be Afraid

Once while Jesus was standing beside the lake of Gennesaret, and the crowd was pressing in on him to hear the word of God, he saw two boats there at the shore of the lake; the fishermen had gone out of them and were washing their nets. He got into one of the boats, the one belonging to Simon, and asked him to put out a little way from the shore. Then he sat down and taught the crowds from the boat. When he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, “Put out into the deep water and let down your nets for a catch.” Simon answered, “Master, we have worked all night long but have caught nothing. Yet if you say so, I will let down the nets.” When they had done this, they caught so many fish that their nets were beginning to break. So they signaled their partners in the other boat to come and help them. And they came and filled both boats, so that they began to sink. But when Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, “Go away from me, Lord, for I am a sinful man!” For he and all who were with him were amazed at the catch of fish that they had taken; and so also were James and John, sons of Zebedee, who were partners with Simon. Then Jesus said to Simon, “Do not be afraid; from now on you will be catching people.” When they had brought their boats to shore, they left everything and followed him. Luke 5:1-11

Loving Creator you begin with abundance

filling our lives and all of creation

with the good gifts to nurture everyone

you sustain us with your renewing love.

We greedy humans have overreached 

damaging the forests, gardens and seas

forgetting our dependence on all creation

rarely grateful for your loving care.

Yet you came among us and do still

filling our nets and lives with hope

pouring justice over us live waters

drenching us with justice and freedom.

Make us your warriors for love and care

may we see creation with your eyes

help us be those who mend the circle

so that fear and destruction leave our world. Amen.