“Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will send you out to fish for people.” At once they left their nets and followed him.– Matthew 4:19-20
A lot of people come to Jesus. And along with them they bring their worries, their concerns, their problems, their aches and pains, their sorrows and frustrations. Coming to Jesus really isn’t that hard when we’re seeking something from Him.
But to follow Jesus? That’s another story. That’s a commitment, and it’s one that many people aren’t willing to make.
A wealthy young man came to Jesus one day, wanting to know what he needed to do to inherit eternal life. Jesus told him, “Go, sell all your possessions and give the money to the poor. And come follow me.” Mark tells us that when the young fella heard this, his face fell. He went away sad because he had great wealth (Mark 10:17-30).
“He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep, to gain what he cannot lose.” Christian Martyr – Jim Elliot (1927-1956)
Following Jesus means leaving some things behind. The Samaritan woman left behind her pitcher, blind Bartimaeus left behind his cloak. Peter and Andrew left their fishing business behind, and Matthew walked away from his tax booth.
Not just simply to come to Jesus, but to come and follow Him.
If Jesus came to you today and said, “Come, follow Me,” what might be some things that could make you hesitant to accept His invitation?
Today’s Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank You for calling me to follow You. Give me the courage to cast aside anything that holds me back from fully trusting and following You. Help me to surrender my fears, my comforts, and my plans so that I may walk boldly in the purpose You have for me. May my life reflect the faith of those who left their nets behind to follow You. Amen.
Former Blackout Artist 