Simon worked all night with no results. Tired and hungry, smelling of sweat and sea, he washed the muck from his nets. He looked up to see the people pressing the new Teacher to the edge of the shore. The Teacher waded to the side of Simon's boat and climbed in. After pushing a few yards from shore, Simon continued his tedious task while the Teacher spoke.

The morning sun seared Simon's back as his shadow danced on the gentle waves that lapped the shore. He never heard a man speak as this man. His words evoked deep feelings—feelings of confidence, trust, and assurance. Realizing his hands were motionless due to his wonderful distraction, he set them back to task, without missing a word.

After dismissing the crowd, the Teacher turned to Simon with an absurd request: “Put out into the deep and lower your nets for some fish.” Now Simon was faced with a dilemma. It was obvious this man didn't know fishing. Fish will not allow themselves to be caught when the sun is high, exposing the nets in the clear water. Yet, His voice was so compelling. As Simon offered his reasonable objection he heard himself say, “Nevertheless, at Your word, I will do it.”

At that moment, Simon ventured by faith into a partnership with Jesus—a partnership based on trust, confidence, and assurance—a partnership resulting in obedience that countered conventional wisdom—a partnership that changed the world.

I contemplate today’s invitation to enter into a new partnership with Jesus. Am I willing to set aside my reasonable objections and say, “Nevertheless, at Your word, I will do it?”

Glynn Scott is Lake Union treasurer and Gary Burns is Lake Union Herald editor.