August 31, 2024

What does it mean to be a “fisher of men” (Mk 1:17)?  A proselytizer?  An apologist?  A televangelist?  The phrase certainly conjures up images of sharp hooks and bait, of being in pursuit, of trying to literally capture someone or something, but this does not sound like Jesus!  What if, however, “fishers of men” has to do with the nets that were so typical during ancient times?  And what if these nets were not to be used against anyone, but were instead for their benefit?  What if we are being called to “catch” those who have been entrusted to us when they fall?  What if, like a safety net, we are being called to humbly descend just low enough to ensure that another person remains intact and capable of continuing on their way?  What if ours is not to bring them to Jesus, but to create circumstances, like others have done for us, that allow for the dignity of choosing to follow him?  This is indeed an exciting vision of the Kingdom, which is, in fact, like a net (Mt 13:47), and a worthwhile way to spend our eternal retirement. 

Ave Crux, Spes Unica.