Isaiah, Paul, and Peter’s transformative encounters
by Sister Mary Kabat
In the Scripture readings for Sunday, we hear the vocation stories of three men: Isaiah, Paul and Peter. Each one has an encounter that transforms his life.
Isaiah sees a vision of God in majesty with angels all around. Even the door frame shakes and the house fills with smoke. Isaiah feels so unworthy to be there until an angel touches his lips with an ember and proclaims that his sin is gone. Isaiah is transformed from a man overwhelmed with his sinfulness to one who volunteers to goes to the people on God’s behalf.
Paul in his first letter to the Corinthians reminds them of the Gospel he has preached to them. He reminds them of all those who saw the Risen Jesus. Humbly Paul shares that Jesus also appeared to him despite his persecution of believers. “By the grace of God, I am what I am and his grace to me has not been ineffective.”
Lastly, there is Peter. Perhaps Peter is struggling with doubts about fully becoming Jesus’ follower. He listens to Jesus while cleaning the fishing nets from a night of unsuccessful fishing. Jesus asks him to put the boat out into the lake. I try to imagine the look that passed from Peter to Jesus and back again. Peter gives in and puts down the nets and is overwhelmed by the catch of fish. He asks Jesus to leave him as he feels so unworthy to be Jesus’ follower. “Do not be afraid,” said Jesus. “Do not be afraid.”
Recall your vocation story with probably more than one encounter of grace.
Continue to know, love and follow Jesus more deeply. Share him with whomever you meet.
Our parish theme in Muelle de los Bueyes was "Launch out into the deep". "Be not afraid" is good too.
Thanks, Mary