“As Jesus walked beside the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and his brother Andrew casting a net into the lake, for they were fishermen. “Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will make you fishers of men.” At once they left their nets and followed him. When he had gone a little farther, he saw James son of Zebedee and his brother John in a boat, preparing their nets. Without delay he called them, and they left their father Zebedee in the boat with the hired men and followed him”.
As I read through this passage, I found three interesting points that are worth reflecting on.
1. They were ordinary people
We see from the passage above that the first followers of Jesus were fisherman. They were not pious or religious scholars or known to all of the chief priests. They were just ordinary men trying to make a living. They were labourers who knew how to work hard.
2. They answered straight away
The men knew straight away this was a compelling call and they had to follow. They didn’t have a big prayer session, they didn’t discuss it, or they didn’t phone a friend like on Millionaire! They just dropped their nets and followed. There was no hesitation.
3. They didn’t look back
The men were totally committed to Jesus and followed Him day and night for three and a half years. They didn’t ask to go and tie up the boat or sell the business. As a result they saw many of the things Jesus did and put some of it into practice themselves. It was the ultimate apprenticeship!
How about you?
One of the great things I love about Jesus is that He calls ordinary people to partner in His work. He looks at our potential for greatness, rather than looking at our less than perfect past.
Here’s a thought - If Jesus came to your workplace today and called you? Would stop and drop what you were doing all follow no questions asked?