The apostle Paul transmits to us in today’s second reading the first and oldest formula of faith which he himself learned and professed at the time of his baptism. In this not only archaic but fundamental formula of the paschal faith Christ’s death and resurrection are understood in the light of the Scriptures, but they open new spaces of fidelity to the Scriptures and broad horizons for discipleship. The amazement that invades the hearts of Simon Peter and his companions is what continually nourishes our growth in knowledge and following of the Lord. It is not a question of obeying a call or carrying out orders, but of entering the world of God allowing oneself to be purified and enlightened by his holiness. The experience of the prophet Isaiah is an intuition of the divine greatness that generates availability: Here I am, send me! Being witnesses of the resurrection is always the fruit of an experience of God’s grace. The grace of being looked at and welcomed into one’s own reality as it happens for Simon is capable of filling the empty nets of our heart. For what expands the spaces of hope to happen, it is necessary to trust the word of the Lord so as not to be afraid to put out into the deep once again and despite all the hardships and disappointments. In the Lucanian rereading of the mystery of the call, that vision of Jesus is highlighted which leads Simon to feel so seen that he begs: get away from me who am a sinner! But what the Lord saw in Simon and what the Lord sees in each of us is what we ourselves cannot see.

Commentary by b. Michael David, osb Community of the Koinonia de la Visitation

Translation by f. Mark Hargreaves, Prinknash Abbey