Responses

Luke 5 tells the account of Jesus commandeering Peter's fishing boat for use as a pulpit, then rewarding Peter and his co-workers with, quite literally, boatloads of fish. Peter's response is the same as that of Isaiah when that prophet-to-be was miraculously taken into God's presence... recognition of his sin and unworthiness.

Isaiah's initial response was, "Woe is me! for I am lost; for I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips; for my eyes have seen the King, the LORD of hosts!" (Isaiah 6:5).

Peter's initial response was very similar - "But when Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus' knees saying, 'Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord!'" (Luke 5:8)

In both cases, the unexpected response was one of mercy and grace. Isaiah's mouth was ritually cleansed with coals from the alter before the throne of God; to Peter Jesus simply said, "Do not be afraid; from now on you will be catching men."

The long-term responses of both men were lifelong commitments to serving God.

The book of Hebrews, in the New Testament, tells us, "Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need." This verse is often used as reassurance that we ought not to think ourselves unworthy to come before God's throne. And in it's context - that Jesus, our great high priest, has paid the price for our sins and thus redeemed us, making it possible for us to stand in the presence of the Holy God - this use of the verse is correct. Yet, placing this passage in Hebrews alongside the passages in Isaiah and Luke, I am reminded that on my own merit I absolutely am not worthy to come into the presence of the Almighty. Thus the reassurance that in His presence I will find mercy and grace.

Once again I am awestruck with wonder that God pursues relationship with me. That the One who has been wronged by my actions, lovingly reaches out to me in kindness and says, "Here, let me help you see yourself clearly in light of who I am, so that you will accept My gracious offer of forgiveness, cleansing and healing. Then you will feel free to come to Me and we can spend time together."

God You are amazing. Absolutely amazing. How can I not respond, as did Isaiah and Peter, by committing myself to a life lived in service to You? It's the very least that I can do.