Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain. Psalm 127:1

Simon answered, “Master, we have worked all night long but have caught nothing. Yet if you say so, I will let down the nets.” When they had done this, they caught so many fish that their nets were beginning to burst. Luke 5:5-6

Our verses today speak of our need to trust in God’s power and His care for us. Solomon has asked the Lord for wisdom – this prayer was answered – and Psalm 127 is part of his response. There is a temple to build, and Solomon now knows that God’s blessing is important. It’s not that God is going to show up in a hard hat with a hammer and nails. Rather it is that no matter how skilled the craftsmen and how hard everyone works to build the temple, without God’s blessing it is all in vain.

We may not be in the construction business, but we are building our lives and our church. How often do we think we know best and work hard to achieve something, only to have it turn out poorly. Simon and his fellow fisherman have worked hard all night and yet didn’t catch any fish. They are skilled fisherman, doing their usual tasks. Then Jesus comes along and says throw out those nets again, they do, and lots and lots of fish are caught. Next, they leave their boats and nets behind to follow Jesus and become His disciples. They change their career for one that doesn’t sound like the pay is very good. However, it is part of God’s plan for them.

As the hymn says:

The Church’s one foundation is Jesus Christ her Lord—

she is his new creation by water and the Word.
From heaven he came and sought her to be his holy bride;
with his own blood he bought her, and for her life he died.

Elect from every nation,
yet one o'er all the earth;
her charter of salvation,
one Lord, one faith, one birth.

Giver of life, you reach out with abundance and provision at every turn. Turn our attention from consumption and collection to your provision. Help us to see the abundance, contentment, and direction you offer. All too often it is hard to have: eyes to see it, trust to loosen our desires for control, or willingness to give up the outcomes we prefer. Help us receive the life you offer with open hands. Amen.

Chris Gabel