Amazing Catch

The recent movie, RISEN, recreates the scene of today's Gospel from John, 21: 1-14,  the miraculous draught of fish which strain but do not break the net, after a whole night of unsuccessful fishing by these professional fishermen.  When they heed the advice of the stranger on the beach, whom they later recognize  as Jesus, they are amazed at how quickly their net filled up. The film depicts their joy an astonishment, not only at the number of fish, but at realizing it was Jesus who was guiding them. Their enthusiasm is genuine and exhilarating as they realize that Jesus is still among them, still working miracles.  They will remain a bit reticent and timid until they receive the Holy Spirit, then boldness and courage to attack the impossible will take over and drive them to the borders of the Roman Empire and to martyrdom.
It is further amazing to us as we realize how Jesus builds, little upon little, and gradually transforms these fishermen into fishers of men.  So too with us, in perhaps less dramatic ways, but nevertheless real, as he transformed the illiterate country boy, Marcellin Champagnat into a priest, founder and saint, can he work transformative marvels in us.  We need but ask, allow, and cooperate with our whole heart and soul, eventually finding our net full of grace and power to enrich and attract others to a deeper friendship with Jesus.
Bro. Rene