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River Forecast
The Year of the Catch
What do you want this year that is worth risking everything for?  I know everyone is planning a New Year Revolution because past attempts have failed so let’s consider Jesus, the master at putting people together with purpose. “as the multitude pressed about Him to hear the word of God, He stood by . . .  and saw two boats standing by . . . but the fishermen had gone . . .  and were washing their nets. Then He got into one of the boats, which was Simon's, and asked him to put out a little from the land. And He sat down and taught the multitudes from the boat.  . . . He said to Simon, "Launch out into the deep and let down your nets for a catch." But Simon answered and said to Him, "Master, we have toiled all night and caught nothing; nevertheless at Your word I will . . .    they caught a great number of fish, and their net was breaking. So they signaled to their partners in the other boat to come and help them. And they came and filled both the boats, so that they began to sink.”  Luke 5:1-7
Jesus wants what you have. – “He saw two boats standing by.”  Jesus is surrounded by a multitude of people with a multitude of problems, but his attention is on two empty boats.  Jesus not only wants you but also your talents and treasures.  The things you have, whether large, small, simple, extravagant, many or few are very important to the Lord. 
Jesus watches what you do. – “Washing their nets”.  The disciples worked hard all night and didn’t even catch a crawfish.  How’s your attitude in hard times?  What’s your struggle?  Remember attitude determines altitude. If you want something you don’t have, you will have to take a risk of doing something you haven’t done.
Jesus is waiting for you. – “He got into one of the boats.”  This boat typifies a believer’s life.  Jesus wants you to be a part of His life so He can enjoy you, just like you enjoy your own children.  It was Simon Peter’s boat He sat in, the fellow who had a tendency to miss the mark.
Jesus wills that you see what He sees. – “Taught the multitudes from the boat.”  Peter sees Jesus’ concern for the needs of a hurting humanity.  Peter then called Him “Master,” because he realized his needs were also going to be satisfied.  How about attempting something bigger, better and beyond just ourselves this year? 
Jesus’ word creates breakthroughs. – Faith said “Launch out into the deep.”  Peter’s fishing expertise wasn’t paying off.  Hours of time, money and energy was spent to no avail.  In humility Peter said, “Nevertheless at Your Word.”  Peter was willing to forfeit the safety of his own understanding and the comfort of where he was to be where Jesus wanted him to be.  The decision brought a great profit to Him and others.  I pray you have a net breaking, boat sinking catch in 2007, so you can signal your friends and family to trust the Lord.