From Sinfulness to Mission - The Call of God

Introduction

Have you ever had a moment where you felt completely unworthy, yet somehow, you were chosen for something great? Maybe it was a responsibility at work, a family role, or even a deep sense that God was calling you to something beyond your comfort zone. Today’s readings show us three such moments—Isaiah, Paul, and Peter—all encountering God’s call, feeling unworthy, and yet being transformed into His messengers.

1. The Call Begins with God, Not Us

In each of today’s readings, who takes the first step? It is God.

Isaiah sees a vision of the Lord in all His majesty.

Paul recalls how Christ appeared to him despite his past as a persecutor.

Peter is simply fishing when Jesus steps into his boat.

This is an important reminder: God’s call is not about our qualifications but about His initiative. We do not “apply” to be His disciples; we are chosen. And often, when we feel least prepared, that’s when God steps in and says, “You—yes, you—follow Me.”

2. A True Encounter with God Leads to Awareness of Sinfulness

Isaiah, Paul, and Peter have the same reaction when they realize they are in the presence of the Holy:

Isaiah cries, “Woe is me! I am a man of unclean lips!”

Paul acknowledges, “I am the least of the apostles, unworthy to be called an apostle.”

Peter falls at Jesus' knees and says, “Depart from me, Lord, for I am a sinful man!”

This is what happens when we truly encounter God—His light exposes our darkness. But here’s the beauty: God does not reveal our sinfulness to condemn us but to purify and prepare us for His mission.

3. Grace Transforms, Not Just Forgives

God’s response to each of these men is not rejection but transformation:

The angel purifies Isaiah’s lips with a burning coal, preparing him to proclaim God's word.

Paul, despite his violent past, becomes the greatest missionary of the Church.

Peter, though overwhelmed by his own unworthiness, hears Jesus’ words: “Do not be afraid. From now on, you will be catching people.”

Jesus never calls perfect people; He perfects those He calls. If we wait until we are "holy enough" to serve, we will never begin. Instead, like Peter, we must step out of the boat in faith.

4. Saying ‘Yes’ Leads to a Mission Greater Than Ourselves

Each of these men, once they encountered God, responded:

Isaiah: “Here I am, Lord; send me.”

Paul: “By the grace of God, I am what I am, and His grace toward me has not been in vain.”

Peter and the disciples: “They left everything and followed Him.”

True discipleship is not about standing in awe of God from a distance; it is about going where He sends us. It requires leaving behind what we think is "safe"—our comfort zones, our fears, our excuses—and embracing the unknown with faith.

Conclusion: From Sinfulness to Mission

The message today is simple:

God calls us—not because we are worthy, but because He chooses us.
A true encounter with God makes us aware of our weaknesses—but His grace is greater.
Saying ‘yes’ transforms us from sinners to missionaries.

So, if you have ever felt unworthy of God’s call, remember: you are in good company! Isaiah, Paul, and Peter all felt the same. And yet, because they said yes, the world was never the same.

The same invitation is given to us today. How will you respond?