Read Luke 5:1-11 | Psalm 25:1-10
Commentary | Dr. Terence Lester
Amid the global pandemic, we faced uncertainties and fear.
The world was gripped by a new, invisible foe. I lead a nonprofit named Love
Beyond Walls that advocates for the unhoused. During COVID-19, Demetri—whose
name is forever etched in my memory—walked into our center. He was a community
member and friend, but he seemed different. We asked what was on his mind, and
he replied, “I believe I’m going to die because I have nowhere to wash my
hands. How am I supposed to wash my hands when I don’t have anywhere to go?”
His words showed the harsh reality for those experiencing
homelessness: over half a million people held the same fear. COVID-19 was an
awakening to the longstanding disparities within society. The term "social
distancing" was jarring for people who had long known social distancing.
Demetri’s story fueled a national campaign we called “Love
Sinks In” to provide handwashing access for those without it, enabling us to
connect more deeply and stand with our community. As others focused on hand
hygiene and quarantine, we provided basic sanitation for those experiencing
homelessness. Many debated toilet paper and confinement; we stood with
individuals without soap, water, or shelter.
Just as Jesus sought out the Galilean fishermen, we sought
out people suffering on the streets. Galilee, now modern-day northern Israel,
hosted a diverse community and some struggled with poverty. Fishing was
commonplace, and for many, a means of subsistence. Those whose fishing did not
succeed often became destitute. Just as Jesus called the fishermen, he calls us
to seek the marginalized, to become “fishers of men.” Demetri’s plea echoed
Peter’s response to Jesus’ call: “I’m afraid.” But it was also a call to
action.
Peter had a wandering heart. Jesus was always there to catch
Peter, to walk beside him, to wash his feet, and to offer love. In Peter’s
story, we find Jesus. Peter’s wandering faith ebbed and flowed, pushed away and
pulled close. But he was always tethered to the love of God. This Lent, we’re
joining Peter in figuring out faith. We will wander alongside him, glimpsing
Jesus through his eyes.
When we allow ourselves to be afraid and vulnerable, God’s
love washes our wandering hearts. We washed hands during COVID-19, but God’s love
showers us with calm, connection, and belonging amid upheaval. In the midst of
fear and uncertainty, Jesus brought calm. He reminded us that God is with us.
Jesus formed a community willing to follow. “Show me your ways, Lord, teach me
your paths. Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and
my hope is in you all day long” (Psalm 25:1-10). In despair, we found hope; in
fear, we found peace.
As we contemplate Luke 5:1-11, let us hold Demetri and
others like him in our hearts. In crisis, Love Beyond Walls responded with
compassion and love, and so, we too were found by the Divine, and the narrative
of our lives became a testament to God’s grace.
Reflect: Dr. Lester writes, “Just as Jesus sought out the Galilean fishermen, we sought out people suffering on the streets.” In your own community, who is God seeking out? Who might God be calling you to seek out?
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