Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time
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February 4, 2022February 6, 2022
Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Is 6:1-2a, 3-8
1 Cor 15:1-11
or 1 Cor 15:3-8, 11
Lk 5:1-11
GROW AS A DISCIPLE | PRAY, STUDY, ENGAGE, SERVE
GROW: We put off all kinds of things for all kinds of reasons. I’ll take that trip with my family once my schedule clears up. Someday I’ll read that book collecting dust on my shelf. I’ll volunteer at church once I get my own act together. Today’s readings remind us that God will take us as we are: We need only say “yes.” In each of the readings, the protagonists – Isaiah, Paul, and Peter – initially resist God’s call, fearing their sinfulness disqualifies them. We may feel that way, too. However, in each case, God forgives their sins and gives them the grace to say, like Isaiah, “Here I am. Send me!” Their assent can be a challenge to those of us who hold back from becoming more involved in our parish or sharing our faith with others, fearing we aren’t good enough or aren’t an expert in theology. Jesus reminds us that it is ultimately not about us, but him. We don’t have to be perfect, just willing to push past our fears and trust him to make disciples of us.
GO EVANGELIZE | PRAYER, INVITATION, WITNESS, ACCOMPANIMENT
GO: In today’s readings, we hear descriptions of Isaiah’s lips touched by a burning ember, Paul being transformed from persecutor to preacher, and the fishermen dropping their nets to follow Jesus. In each case, that turning point led to a life of witness. We may not have such a dramatic story to share, but most of us can look back and see turning points: That influential teacher, the aunt who saw the best in us, a priest, sister, or retreat leader who spoke to our hearts. Today’s readings can encourage us to be that person for others – the one who shows them the love of Christ and what a difference it can make. Buoyed by God’s grace, we can share the Good News with others and accompany one another as we seek to follow Jesus in our day-to-day lives.
ACT: Carve out time to do something spiritual you’ve been putting off – whether it’s a retreat, morning prayer, or perhaps volunteering in a parish ministry or other organization.
