Matthew 4:17-22, Jesus Calls his First Disciples

17 From that time Jesus began to preach, saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.”

18 While walking by the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon (who is called Peter) and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea, for they were fishermen. 19 And he said to them, “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.” 20 Immediately they left their nets and followed him. 21 And going on from there he saw two other brothers, James the son of Zebedee and John his brother, in the boat with Zebedee their father, mending their nets, and he called them. 22 Immediately they left the boat and their father and followed him.

Comments

When Jesus asked four fishermen to follow him, literally “to come behind me,” they joined his ministry. Jesus did not demand the severing of family ties or selling of homes and property. After all, they did remain in Galilee for much of Jesus’ ministry. But he did ask for a new way of life.

Application/Reflection

Imagine the privilege of walking and talking with Jesus. Of being in his physical presence. These first disciples had plenty of time to make an informed decision to follow him.

God gives us the gift of communication through prayer; to come into a relationship with him through Jesus. In your life, when has Jesus called you to follow him more closely, giving you time and space to consider his invitation? How have you responded? Have you introduced Jesus to others in your life?

Prayer

O God of all the nations of the earth: Remember the multitudes who have been created in your image but have not known the redeeming work of our Savior Jesus Christ; and grant that, by the prayers and labors of your holy Church, they may be brought to know and worship you as you have been revealed in your Son; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

(BCP, p. 257)