Mid-Life Crisis

Do not be afraid; from now on you will be catching people —  Luke 5:10.

While Matthew’s rendition of Jesus’ words – “fishers of men” – resonates more deeply with me, both verses highlight a pivotal moment. Jesus, in essence, was inviting seasoned fishermen to embark on an entirely new vocation. It’s striking to consider these men, skilled in their lifelong trade, leaving their nets behind to follow an unknown path. One can’t help but wonder about their internal states – were they disillusioned with their livelihoods? Were they experiencing a profound shift in perspective? Imagine the conversations around their dinner tables that evening.

The prospect of changing careers, especially later in life, can indeed be a significant and sometimes unsettling experience. Occasionally, a compelling opportunity arises, while other times, circumstances force our hand. Like Simon and his companions, we might encounter a seemingly predestined call. Yet, for most, discerning one’s vocation is a more complex and less clear-cut process.

Interestingly, the possibility of a new calling remains even now. I suspect this openness persists for many of us, regardless of age. It’s unlikely Simon foresaw his transformation from fisherman to disciple and eventual leader of a nascent faith. His willingness to be open to something new, however, proved transformative. If we too maintain that openness, who knows what unexpected and meaningful paths might unfold before us.

About the author

Webb Hubbell is the former Associate Attorney General of The United States. His novels, When Men Betray, Ginger Snaps, A Game of Inches, The Eighteenth Green, and The East End are published by Beaufort Books and are available online or at your local bookstore. When Men Betray won one of the IndieFab awards for best novel in 2014. Ginger Snaps and The Eighteenth Green won the IPPY Awards Gold Medal for best suspense/thriller. His latest, “Light of Day” will be on the bookstands soon.

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