Though it was early in Jesus' ministry, crowds were already beginning to gather and to follow him wherever he went. They were eager for his personal interest and ministry to their particular needs. Jesus knew that there was more to ministering to people than the acts of pastoral care and compassion. Without basic learning through teaching and preaching, spiritual foundations are hard to lay and concepts of enduring meaning are neglected. Jesus had earlier made friends with Peter when his brother Andrew brought him to meet Jesus at his residence, according to a story found in John 2:35-42. On that occasion he saw great potential in Peter, and called him "the Rock." It seems natural that he would use Peter's boat to separate himself enough from the press of the people to do some meaningful teaching for all to hear. His discourse did not stop the fishermen from washing and stretching their nets, or from hearing what he was saying. Evidently Jesus' message lasted until Peter brought his nets back to the boat.

Jesus remained in the boat, and suggested that a try be made for a catch. Peter was surprised by the proposal, because an all-night effort had been unsuccessful, but if Jesus said so, they would try. Together Peter and Jesus put out the nets in deeper water away from the shore, and on the first try the nets were filled to over-flowing, requiring that Peter call for help from his fishing partners, James and John, the sons of Zebedee.

They brought their boat, and both craft were filled with so many fish that they were threatened with sinking, but they managed to get safely back to shore. Peter, in remorse for his doubt and behavior, knelt before Jesus, and confessed his feelings of unworthiness. Jesus in a short time had become a friend, a partner, and spiritual leader for these fishermen. To their further amazement and surprise he invited them to become his partners in a new enterprise -- fishing for people -- and they left everything and followed him.

What happened to the great catch of fish? Was Zebedee left with responsibility for preparing and taking them for sale? Was the crowd invited to take what they needed for themselves for fresh food at home? We aren't told. But we do know that Peter, James, and John were from that moment on close partners with Jesus in his Messianic mission. It was they who took the initiative in the formation of the early church after the events of the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus the Christ.

The identification of a person as a Christian proclaims a partnership with Christ. That person is supposed to have spiritual resources that the secular world can never give. The Christian is not set apart from the world, but in the midst of it becomes an influence in doing good, rather than surrendering to secularized conformity.

Christ as partner always bears his share and more in all responsibilities of Christian endeavor. The greatest partnership anyone ever forms is that of the Christian covenant. It is backed by the institution known as the church, through which spiritual profits are channeled. It is the greatest business in the world, because mankind is constantly wanting religious service and better ways in which to serve.

Futility and triviality are not a part of the Christian mission. There is genuine concern about the most pressing issues of society and humanity's needs. Progress is continual, and growth is a priority. If you want a partner who can make your life a real success, choose Christ. With him there are no regretful relationships, no bankruptcy of spirit, no moral corruption, and the net gains are wonderful, for they always add up to eternal life, if we are found faithful in performing our part in the partnership, which is a reasonable and sacred commitment of life and service. We are never too old or disabled to become a partner with Christ.

A Prayer: Thank you, God for this wonderful story of men who became partners with Christ. It does our hearts and souls good when we realize the wonders and joys of our partnership with him as our Lord and leader in life. Sometimes we are prone to forget and fail in doing our part, for which we are ashamed, and like Peter, ask your forgiveness for our personal failures. Teach us how to be good fishers of men, and to rejoice in catching them, even as we have been caught for the kingdom of God. Amen.