at JANUARY 29, 2013 by MARK KOLCHIN

Now when He had left speaking, He said unto Simon, Launch out into the deep, and let down your nets for a draught.” Lk. 5:4

Simon Peter must have been surprised when the Lord turned and instructed him to launch out into the Galilee. He had offered his own boat and thrust out “a little” from the land so that the Lord could teach the multitude. But now Peter was being called upon to go further in his service for the Master. What started out as a menial task became a meaningful one despite Peter’s doubts and concerns. (v. 5) Yet doubt gave way to duty (and amazement) as the Lord rewarded their meager but obedient faith. Don’t be afraid to attempt great things for the Lord. To whom He calls, He can enable, even in the midst of an “insignificant” task. Launch out into the deep — today — and let down your nets for a draught.

But many, alas! Only stand on the shore, And gaze on the ocean so wide;They never have ventured its depths to explore, Or to launch on the fathomless tide.- R. Kelso Carter