Mammy used to tell stories
when she worked
in our local library.
Every Tuesday afternoon
she would gather around her
all of the children,
then sit down
and read them a story.

The children used to sit
at Mammy’s feet
wide-eyed
and listening intently
while, just around the corner …
all of the adults,
apparently browsing through books
listened as well!

And sure why not?
Doesn’t everyone love
a good story?

This pops into my head
when I read this morning
about Jesus
by the shores of Lake Genasareth.

Simon Peter’s boat
is moored just off-shore
after a fruitless night
of fishing
while nearby
his disappointed crew of fishermen
wash out their nets.
Getting into Simon Peter’s boat,
Jesus begins to teach the crowd.

I wonder about the fishermen.

Washing their nets
by the water’s edge
they are perfectly positioned
to hear every word
that Jesus says.
And I wonder whether,
under the guise of working
the fishermen, too, listen-in
to all the Jesus has to say
(just like the adults
in the library)?

And sure why not?
Doesn’t everyone love
a good story?

You see, not only was Jesus
a gifted teacher,
he was a master storyteller
as well!

© Claire Murray 3rd July 2022
(Luke 5: 1-11)