Vital signs- Tuesday, January 19th , 2021

“Once when he was standing on the shore of Lake Gennesaret, the crowd was pushing in on him to better hear the Word of God. He noticed two boats tied up. The fishermen had just left them and were out scrubbing their nets. He climbed into the boat that was Simon’s and asked him to put out a little from the shore. Sitting there, using the boat for a pulpit, he taught the crowd.

Simon said, “Master, we’ve been fishing hard all night and haven’t caught even a minnow. But if you say so, I’ll let out the nets.” It was no sooner said than done—a huge haul of fish, straining the nets past capacity. They waved to their partners in the other boat to come help them. They filled both boats, nearly swamping them with the catch.

Simon Peter, when he saw it, fell to his knees before Jesus. “Master, leave. I’m a sinner and can’t handle this holiness. Leave me to myself.” When they pulled in that catch of fish, awe overwhelmed Simon and everyone with him. It was the same with James and John, Zebedee’s sons, coworkers with Simon.

Simon Peter, when he saw it, fell to his knees before Jesus. “Master, leave. I’m a sinner and can’t handle this holiness. Leave me to myself.” When they pulled in that catch of fish, awe overwhelmed Simon and everyone with him. It was the same with James and John, Zebedee’s sons, coworkers with Simon. Jesus said to Simon, “There is nothing to fear. From now on you’ll be fishing for men and women.” They pulled their boats up on the beach, left them, nets and all, and followed him. When he finished teaching, he said to Simon, “Push out into deep water and let your nets out for a catch.””

‭‭Luke‬ ‭5:1-11‬ ‭MSG‬‬

Jesus pursues and calls the fishermen Peter, James, and John to leave their profession and way of life in order to serve Him.  They responded with obedience and humility.  Followers of Jesus will lovingly surrender their plans for His.   

What is God asking you to leave behind to advance the cause of Christ?  Those who follow and serve God will receive eternal joy and blessings that far outweigh our temporary and fleeting plans. Maybe He’s not calling you to leave your job but what about your agenda?

Father God, give me the courage and strength to pursue You at all costs. Help me to surrender my desires and plans to Yours. Lord, remind me daily of the joy and blessings that come with serving You. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.”

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭3:5-6‬ ‭ESV‬‬