A fish story.

Lectionary: 434
Reading 1
Responsorial Psalm
Gospel
Blessed John Francis Burte and Companions

"God catches the wise in their own ruses."
St. Paul warns me in today's first reading not to get too big for my britches. Even the wise are limited by their humanity. We see things that started off with good intentions go the way of most human endeavors in the French revolution. With a battle cry of "Liberty, Equality, Fraternity" came a foolish desire to rid society of all things of God. Blessed John Francis and his companions (more than 200 people in religious communities) were martyred during the revolution when they would not take an oath denying their faith.
One more thing: Blessed John and his companions gave up everything on earth for God. Today's gospel finds Simon, James and John doing the same thing. At the moment they catch the biggest catch of their careers (and bragging rights to the world's greatest fish story), they walk away and follow Jesus. I try to keep that in mind in those moments when I feel at the top of my game. Those rare occasions when it all comes together ( hot dinner on the table, homework done, hubby home on time, happy toddler ) are when I need to turn to Christ and make sure I'm still following him.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank you for those moments when I shine for you. Keep me humble in my endeavors, always with a heart of service. I ask this in your precious name, Amen. Blessed John Francis, pray for me.