Follow Me
And Jesus, walking by the Sea of Galilee, saw two brothers, Simon called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea; for they were fishermen. Then He said to them, “Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men.” Matthew 4:18-19
In this account, we see the calling of two more apostles. Like Matthew from our previous account, these blue-collar fishermen were unlikely choices for apostleship. They, like Matthew (and us!), were called purely by grace, not because they were eloquent speakers, proven leaders, or even ‘good people.’
In this “follow me” directive, Jesus provides some additional details concerning a specific objective of this following. They would become “fishers of men.” That is to say, following Jesus would mean that they would be instrumental in leading others to follow Jesus as well. And after Jesus’ ascension, these men fulfilled this task in abundance!
As we have been made followers of Jesus, we too have the privilege and responsibility of being fishers of men. Our most important calling on earth is to bring the message of sins forgiven to as many people as we can. We cast our nets wide, never knowing (or worrying) how the message will be received. With both our words and actions, we strive daily to share Jesus, and the cross, and the empty tomb.
As we are following Jesus, we necessarily will be leading others to Jesus. May we always keep this in the forefront of our mind, praying for (and then watching for) opportunities to share our faith with others.
Spread, oh, spread, thou mighty Word,
Spread the kingdom of the Lord,
Wheresoe'er His breath has giv'n
Life to beings meant for heav'n.
Tell of our Redeemer's love,
Who forever doth remove
By His holy sacrifice
All the guilt that on us lies.
The Lutheran Hymnal 507:1,3