FISHING NET
The fishing industry in ancient Galilee played a significant role in the ministry of Jesus and the calling of His first disciples. The Gospel accounts provide vivid details about the types of nets used and the methods employed by fishermen during that time.
Fishing Methods in Biblical Times
In the time of Jesus, two primary types of fishing nets were used on the Sea of Galilee:
1. The Drag-net (Sagene): This large net was cast from the back of a boat. As the boat moved forward, the four corners of the net were drawn together, forming a bag-like shape to enclose fish. This method required multiple fishermen working in coordination.
2. The Casting-net (Amphiblestron): This smaller net was cast by hand from the shore or a boat. It would spread out in an umbrella-like shape, sinking to trap fish underneath. This method could be employed by a single fisherman.
The Gospel of Matthew describes Simon Peter and Andrew using a casting-net when Jesus called them: “As he was walking by the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon who is called Peter, and his brother Andrew, casting a net into the sea; they were fishermen” (Mt 4:18).
The Call of the First Disciples
The Gospels provide complementary accounts of how Jesus called His first disciples. While there are apparent differences in the narratives, they can be harmonized to provide a fuller picture of events:
1. Initial Encounter (Jn 1:35-42): Andrew, a disciple of John the Baptist, first encounters Jesus and introduces his brother Simon to Him. This occurs near the Jordan River where John was baptizing.
2. The Call by the Sea (Mt 4:18-22, Mk 1:16-20): Later, Jesus encounters Simon Peter and Andrew fishing by the Sea of Galilee and calls them to follow Him, saying, “Come after me, and I will make you fishers of men” (Mt 4:19).
3. The Miraculous Catch (Lk 5:1-11): Luke’s account provides additional details, including a miraculous catch of fish that precedes the call of Simon Peter.
The Catholic interpretation of these passages recognizes that the disciples’ response to Jesus’ call was immediate and total. As the Catechism of the Catholic Church states: “The call to discipleship is linked to the gift of faith. It is not the result of human effort or reasoning but of God’s gracious choice” (CCC 520).
REFLECTION
The calling of the first disciples offers profound lessons for all Christians:
1. Readiness to Respond: Like Peter and Andrew, we are called to respond promptly to God’s call in our lives, whatever form it may take.
2. Total Commitment: The disciples left their nets, boats, and livelihoods to follow Jesus, demonstrating the totality of commitment He desires.
3. Transformation: Jesus promised to make them “fishers of men,” indicating a transformation of their skills and purpose for the Kingdom of God.
4. Trust in Divine Providence: The disciples’ willingness to leave their secure professions shows their trust in God’s provision.
As we reflect on the calling of the first disciples, let us consider how we can respond to Christ’s call in our own lives:
1. Be Attentive to God’s Voice: Be attentive to God’s voice in prayer, Scripture, and the events of daily life.
2. Cultivate Detachment: Cultivate a spirit of detachment from worldly concerns that may hinder our response to God’s call.
3. Use Our Talents: Use our talents and skills, like the fishermen’s expertise, in service of the Gospel.
4. Trust in Providence: Trust in God’s providence as we step out in faith to follow Him.
While not all are called to full-time ministry, every Christian is called to witness to Christ in their particular circumstances. As Pope Francis reminds us, “Every Christian is a missionary to the extent that he or she has encountered the love of God in Christ Jesus” (Evangelii Gaudium, 120).
May we, like Peter and Andrew, have the courage to leave our “nets” – whatever may be holding us back – and follow Christ wholeheartedly, becoming true “fishers of men” in our families, workplaces, and communities.