The Calling of St. Peter: Jesus Calls Us to Follow Him

The Calling of St. Peter: Jesus Calls Us to Follow Him

This presentation took place following a three-day conference, just as the attendees were preparing to participate in a Blessed Sacrament Procession.

The discourse commences by highlighting how the Lord, on three separate occasions, beckoned Peter with the words “Follow Me.”

The First Calling

The initial summons to Peter occurred after an entire night dedicated to fishing.

Peter was acquainted with Jesus, who was engaged in instructing a multitude by the shoreline. Jesus requested the use of Peter’s boat as an elevated platform to address the gathering. Despite his fatigue and physical strain, Peter consented, and alongside the crowd, he listened attentively to the Lord’s teachings. Following this discourse, Jesus suggested they resume fishing. Fatigued yet compliant, Peter embarked on another fishing venture and experienced an abundant catch. Overwhelmed by this turn of events, Peter humbled himself in awe, prompting the Lord to gaze upon this weary man and utter the words, “Follow Me.”

The Second Calling

As Peter continued to accompany the Lord, a second call emerged. This call was more intricate than the first, coming after a period of devoted companionship with Jesus. It was a call that delved into the profound significance of “Following Me.” Jesus posed a seemingly simple query to his disciples: “Whom do people say that I am?” This question signaled a deeper invitation. Among the diverse responses from the disciples, Peter, the one to speak up, proclaimed, “You are the Christ, the Son of the Living God!”

While his words were accurate, Peter’s understanding had yet to align with his proclamation. The Lord instructed him not to reveal this insight, indicating that genuine comprehension of Jesus emanates from His own words. Subsequently, Jesus elucidated His identity and foretold His impending sacrifice. Peter, stirred by concern, interjected, prompting Jesus to rebuke him. Yet, Jesus affirmed that true discipleship involves a profound commitment. This second call’s relevance to our lives is expounded upon in the presentation.

The Third Calling

Following the second call, the Lord embarked on purifying Peter’s (and our) discipleship. This third and most poignant calling took place again by the waterside after a night of fruitless fishing. Jesus directed Peter to cast his nets on the opposite side of the boat, resulting in an overwhelming catch. Overwhelmed with conviction, Peter plunged into the water and swam to shore to meet the Lord, embodying a redemptive encounter following his prior denial.

On the shore, Jesus engaged Peter in a sequence of three questions, culminating in the resounding command, “Follow Me.” This trilogy of inquiries held profound significance, and their purpose is explored in the presentation. This final calling epitomizes the Lord’s instructive method, shedding light on the teachings He conveyed to Peter, which carry enduring lessons for all of us.