Our Gospel lesson this week is Mark 1:14-20, taken today from the English Standard Version (ESV).
Now after John was arrested, Jesus came into Galilee, proclaiming the gospel of God, and saying, “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel.” Passing alongside the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and Andrew the brother of Simon casting a net into the sea, for they were fishermen. And Jesus said to them, “Follow me, and I will make you become fishers of men.” And immediately they left their nets and followed him. And going on a little farther, he saw James the son of Zebedee and John his brother, who were in their boat mending the nets. And immediately he called them, and they left their father Zebedee in the boat with the hired servants and followed him.
When Jesus called the disciples He said “Follow me”. It was a simple statement, without a lot of details, no stipulations or clauses. The only job description He gave was that they would be “fishers of men” (v. 17).
It sounds like they will be “catching” people, but with a completely different focus than fishing. Previously, they fished to provide a life for themselves and their families. Now, Jesus asks them to help provide life to the world.
This call to follow Him and share His love with everyone comes to us as well. Like His first followers we must make the decision to go – Jesus invites, He doesn’t force. He asks us to put our connection to God above all else and follow Him to eternal life.
Savior of the world, we giveYou thanks and praise for including us in Your plan of salvation. Help us to be willing and active followers, sharing the Good News of Your kingdom. Amen.