Here I am Lord, send me.

The Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year C) focuses on God’s call and our response. The readings highlight how God’s grace transforms ordinary people into His messengers. The central theme is the call to mission despite our unworthiness.

Many of us hesitate when called to serve God because we feel unworthy. However, today’s readings show that God doesn’t call the perfect—He perfects those He calls.

In the first reading, Isaiah has a vision of God’s majesty. Overwhelmed by his sinfulness, he cries, “Woe is me! I am a man of unclean lips” (Isaiah 6:5). But after an angel purifies him with a burning coal, he responds, “Here I am, send me.”

Paul, in the second reading, recalls how he once persecuted Christians. Yet, by God’s grace, he becomes an apostle. No past sin is too great for God to transform into a testimony.

In the Gospel, Peter and his companions toil all night without catching fish. But at Jesus’ word, they make a miraculous catch.

We are all called – Not just priests and religious leaders, but every Christian is called to evangelize in their family, workplace, and community. Don’t let past failures stop you – Like Paul and Peter, our weaknesses should not keep us from answering God’s call. Obedience brings fruitfulness – Peter obeyed Jesus despite doubt and witnessed a miracle. Trusting God’s word in our lives will also bring spiritual fruit.

Isaiah was fearful, Paul was a sinner, and Peter was just a fisherman. But each, by God’s grace, became a powerful witness. May we trust in God’s grace, let go of our fears, and say, “Here I am, Lord, send me!” Amen.