RBWords

     The "call" of the first disciples, despite the drama of the big catch, would have been a normal thing for a teacher to do in Jesus' time.  The big catch was a way of letting Peter, James and John (who would remain a special threesome in the gospels) know that if they follow Jesus, big things would happen.  The key expression, which is repeated throughout the gospels, is: "Do not be afraid!"  Overcoming our fears of what will happen if we take our baptismal calling seriously enough to take actions that might attract attention - good and bad - can be a major obstacle to sharing the faith.  But it is not the clergy who are the principal evangelizers, but the faithful folks in the pews.  Ask anyone who enters the RCIA program at your local parish.  They will point to a particular individual's example as a power witness.

     Discerning the "call" that comes to all of us through baptism is not as hard as it might seem.  Perhaps it may be more dramatic in some instances, like Peter, James and John or Paul, but usually it's expressed through "opportunities" that present themselves in everyday life.  Consistent faith, expressed both devotionally as well as in generosity and kindness outside a church context, is what works best.  Peter, James and John may have left their boats to follow Jesus, but somebody had to take care of all those fish!  AMEN