Fr. Jim begins by recalling a humorous scene from the movie Wayne’s World, where the main characters bow before their idol, saying, 'We're not worthy!' He connects this idea to the biblical experiences of Peter and Isaiah, both of whom felt unworthy in the presence of God. Peter, after witnessing Jesus perform the miracle of the great catch of fish, reacts by saying, 'Leave me, Lord, for I am a sinful man.' Similarly, Isaiah, upon seeing a vision of God, declares that he is unclean.
Fr. Jim explains that this deep sense of unworthiness is actually a sign of a genuine encounter with God, as it reveals our human limitations in the face of divine greatness. However, Fr. Jim emphasizes that feeling unworthy should not lead to backing away from God’s call. While Peter initially wants to retreat, Jesus reassures him, saying, 'Do not be afraid.' Likewise, in Isaiah’s vision, an angel purifies his lips, allowing him to accept God’s mission by saying, 'Here I am, Lord; send me.' Many people feel they are not holy enough or worthy enough to serve in ministry, but Fr. Jim reassures them that God does not call the perfect—He calls those who are willing. Recognizing our unworthiness is not a sign that we are unqualified; rather, it is proof that we understand the power of God’s grace working in us.
Fr. Jim challenges the congregation to reflect on their own experiences of encountering God's greatness. Have they ever felt unworthy of God’s blessings or hesitant to serve in the Church because they believe they are not good enough? He encourages them to lean into God’s love and respond to His call, just as Peter and Isaiah did. Saying 'yes' to God does not require perfection but a willingness to trust in His grace. Just like Peter, who left everything behind to follow Jesus, we are invited to take the first step in faith, knowing that God’s love and calling are greater than our shortcomings.
Journal and reflect on the following
Have you ever experienced a moment where you felt unworthy in the presence of something truly great or sacred? How did you respond?
Like Peter and Isaiah, do you sometimes feel hesitant to accept God’s calling because of your own perceived shortcomings? How can you move past those fears?
Jesus reassured Peter, saying, 'Do not be afraid.' How does this message apply to your own faith journey and the ways God may be calling you?
In what ways has God shown His grace in your life, despite your feelings of unworthiness?
Are there opportunities to serve in your parish or community that you have avoided because you felt 'not good enough'? How might God be inviting you to step forward?
Isaiah responded to God’s call by saying, 'Here I am, Lord; send me.' What areas of your life do you feel called to surrender to God’s mission?
How can you encourage others who feel unworthy or hesitant in their faith journey to trust in God’s love and respond to His call?
Discuss
Song - Who am I
Final Prayer
Loving and merciful God, in Your presence, we recognize our unworthiness, yet You call us by name and invite us into Your mission. Like Peter and Isaiah, we sometimes feel unfit for the work You place before us, but You remind us, “Do not be afraid.” Help us to trust in Your grace, knowing that it is not our strength but Your love that equips and sustains us. Give us the courage to say, “Here I am, Lord; send me,” and to step forward in faith, embracing the calling You have placed in our hearts. May we always lean into Your love, knowing that in our weakness, Your power is made perfect. Amen.
