Stepping Forward in Faith with Jesus
Scripture: Matthew 4:18-22 (NIV)
"As Jesus was walking beside the Sea of Galilee, He saw two brothers, Simon called Peter and his brother Andrew. They were casting a net into the lake, for they were fishermen. 'Come, follow me,' Jesus said, 'and I will send you out to fish for people.' At once they left their nets and followed him. Going on from there, He saw two other brothers, James son of Zebedee and his brother John. They were in a boat with their father Zebedee, preparing their nets. Jesus called them, and immediately they left the boat and their father and followed Him."
Introduction:
At some point in our lives, we will encounter a crucial decision: choosing whether to follow Jesus or not. Following Christ signifies trusting His guidance and being receptive to His teachings, regardless of the circumstances. Today's passage outlines the calling of Simon Peter, Andrew, James, and John, the first disciples of Jesus. Their actions and responses exemplify how we can put our faith into practice and follow Him wholeheartedly.
Reflection:
The decision of the first disciples to follow Jesus teaches us several fundamental principles applicable in our modern lives.
1. Be receptive to Jesus' calling: The disciples were at work when they heard Jesus calling them. Their day-to-day lives had not prepared them for such an encounter. Yet, they were receptive and open to Jesus' message, and thus, responded immediately. Our lives today are often consumed by our careers, relationships, and personal interests. But when Jesus calls us, are we ready to pause, listen, and answer the call?
2. Be willing to let go of the familiar: Simon Peter and Andrew, upon hearing Jesus' invitation to become "fishers of men," abandoned their nets to follow Him. James and John faced a similar decision when they left their boat and father to join Jesus. Following Christ often requires letting go of the familiar and comfortable aspects of our lives or setting aside our previous priorities to embrace what God has planned for us.
3. Embrace unconditional commitment: The immediacy of the first disciples' response implies their dedication and eagerness to follow Jesus. Deep down, they understood that following Christ meant a total commitment. In our journey with Jesus, we will encounter obstacles, challenges, and even persecution. But trusting in the Lord implies giving our all without reservation.
Application:
Taking these lessons to heart, let us reflect on our personal relationship with Jesus. Where are we in our journey of faith? Are we receptive to His calling, prepared to leave our comfort zones, and committed to following Him unconditionally?
As we consider these questions, let us be encouraged by the unwavering faith of the first disciples. They left everything behind and followed Jesus, placing their trust in Him. As followers of Christ, let us do the same, confident that He will lead us in a life of love, purpose, and eternal significance.
Closing Prayer:
Dear Lord, we are grateful for Your love and patience as You call us to follow You. Help us to be receptive to Your voice and guidance in our lives. Give us the courage to let go of our comfort zones and the strength to commit wholeheartedly to Your will. May our lives be a shining testimony of Your goodness and love. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
Aaron is a husband, dad, youth pastor, author, and blogger. His latest book, Redeem the Story: A Call to Let God Rewrite Your Story, is now available. He currently serves as the youth pastor at More 2 Life Ministries in Okeechobee, Florida where he lives with his wife and 4 boys.
