In today’s Gospel we see Luke’s version of the call of the fishermen. The story is well known but Luke gives a much more human portrait of the future apostles than the other evangelists do. It begins with Jesus preaching to the people on the shore from inside Simon’s boat.
After Jesus had finished speaking, he said to Simon, “Put out into deep water and lower your nets for a catch. Simon said in reply: “Master, we have worked hard all night and have caught nothing. But at your command, we will lower the nets.”
We know what happens next. The fish come in such great numbers that the nets are tearing, with the boat in danger of sinking. Simon’s response to this miracle is very revealing.
“Depart from me, Lord, for I am a sinful man.” . . . Jesus said to Simon: “Do not be afraid. From now on, you will be catching men.” When they brought their boats to the shore, they left everything and followed him.
Simon Peter’s humanity shines through in the gospels probably more than any of the Twelve, and that makes him so appealing and easy to relate to. He brags, he speaks without thinking, he even shows weakness and denies his Master at a crucial time. But here, in the beginning of his story, we get a first glimpse of his honest heart. He considers himself a sinner, unworthy to be in the presence of this miracle worker.
Jesus looks into Peter’s heart, sees his potential, and patiently nurtures his journey as the leader of the apostles and the Church. Similarly, Jesus knows our hearts and nurtures our journey as his disciples. Humble awareness of our sinfulness is the first step toward conversion. Jesus tells Peter and us: “Do not be afraid.”
5th Sunday in Ordinary Time Entrance Antiphon O Come, Let Us Worship God (Steve Angrisano, Sarah Hart and Curtis Stephan)
Let us All Rejoice #48
The antiphons were carefully curated by the Church to help us focus on the readings of the day. This text from Psalm 95 speaks of “bowing low before the God who made us.” It is an apt touchstone to the humility of Peter in today’s Gospel.
Entrance Chant Jesus Is Here (Cooper Ray and Steve Angrisano)
This song by Cooper and Steve is a joyful celebration of Jesus’ call. You will find the sheet music in the link above.
Responsorial Psalm In the Sight of the Angels (Tom Tomaszek)
Spirit & Psalm 2025: p. 86
Tom’s verbatim setting of Psalm 138 references the angels who appeared in Isaiah’s vision in the First Reading. The angels eternally cry out in praise of God.
Gospel Acclamation Alleluia: Misa del Mundo (Jesse Manibusan and Tony Goméz)
Spirit & Psalm 2025: p. 90
We stand and sing “Alleluia” because Jesus is in our midst during the proclamation of the Gospel.
Presentation and Preparation of the Gifts Jesus, My Everything (Matt Maher)
Spirit & Song #321; Never Too Young #220
Matt’s song is a favorite of many youth choirs. The first verse is an honest response of a young person who is grappling with Jesus’ call to discipleship. “But holiness is calling me, so take me as I am.”
5th Sunday in Ordinary Time Communion Antiphon Let Them Thank the Lord for His Mercy [Option 1] (Steve Angrisano, Sarah Hart and Curtis Stephan)
Let us All Rejoice #49
Of the two options for the Communion Antiphon, Option 1 serves today’s readings well. “For he satisfies the thirsty soul.”
Communion Chant Here I Am, Lord (Dan Schutte)
Spirit & Song #250; Never Too Young #264; Breaking Bread #393
This beloved classic song needs to be known by every generation. I have noticed that young people today love singing it, and the refrain is especially engaging.
Sending Forth Fish With Me (Ken Canedo)
Spirit & Song #211; Never Too Young #128
Three chords! When I composed this song of the fishermen, I wanted to craft something that my youth guitarists could play easily and with great spirit. The first verse is a retelling of today’s Gospel story.
Liturgy Blog is a weekly liturgy planning resource for musicians, liturgists, homilists, youth groups, faith sharing groups, and all who look to the liturgical readings for inspiration and nourishment. Join Ken Canedo as he breaks open the Scripture and suggests tracks from the Spirit & Song contemporary repertoire.
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