Too often we observe serious competition among local churches or denominations to attract new members to their communities when a joint communal, inclusive approach to evangelism and outreach would be far more effective and beneficial to all. We can be rightly disturbed by the individual need for prestige and honor in these circumstances. Yet they seem to occur with increasing regularity while quietly eroding the powerful construct of community.

Notice that today’s scripture mentions two boats. From my African perspective, this reminds me of the Zulu word ubuntu, which means “I am because we are.” I am enabled and empowered, made fully human, because I am part of a family, a tribe, and a community. It appears that fishing is a communal activity in biblical times. To have one boat at one end of the net and another boat at the other end surely allows the team to catch more fish. The boats have a common goal and rely on each other to jointly harvest the catch. They embody the concept of ubuntu.

But the disciples have toiled all night and have caught nothing! We can sense their feelings of failure, disillusion, and disappointment. Few people enjoy working with no reward, and in this regard, the disciples are most certainly human.

Jesus recognizes their plight and gently emphasizes the need for community: Simon Peter catches so many fish he has to call for his partners in the other boat to help him. Jesus understands their real need and, as with all of us in times of despair and darkness, reveals his amazing power to overcome all difficulties.

What new project can your faith community initiate to invite more people to begin a relationship with Jesus Christ?