He asked me what fishing was like, and I told him that sometimes it’s slow and you don’t get a bite. However, sometimes you keep catching fish, one after the other, and it’s the biggest thrill! It’s never the same each time but always a great experience. Fr. Jim responded, “That is how evangelization is. Sometimes it’s slow and it seems like you are getting nowhere but there is fellowship and peace. Sometimes it’s a thrill and you wonder if there is enough room in the boat for your catch.”

In today’s Gospel reading, Jesus says to Peter and Andrew, as he does to all of us, “Come after me, and I will make you fishers of men” (Matthew 4:19). As a Catholic in Recovery group leader, I have found seeking newcomers to experience Jesus at a deeper level to be similar to my experience of fishing. Sometimes months pass without a newcomer, and I wonder what I’m doing wrong. Then, suddenly, I’ll get an influx of newcomers seeking recovery or family members reaching out for help with a loved one and it seems like my “boat” may be about to capsize. As Fr. Jim explained, this is how evangelizing works. Whether we aren’t catching a thing or our boat is overflowing, we can always be grateful for the opportunity to “fish” for souls in the name of Christ with a spirit of patience and peace.

Reflection Questions

• How does Jesus’ invitation to become fishers of men relate to Step 12 and our commitment to carrying the message of hope to others and practicing recovery principles in all our affairs? Are you responding to this invitation?
• What spiritual practices help you remain patient and at peace during the slow periods of your Step 12 work?

Daily Mass Readings

First Reading: Romans 10:9-18
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 19:8, 9, 10, 11
Gospel: Matthew 4:18-22

Reflection by Jonathan H.