And Jesus said to them, ‘Follow me and I will make you fish for people.’” vs. 17
Mark 1:16-18
Jesus was on the prowl and looking for disciples as he began his ministry along the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee. He had no list of qualifications; no advanced degree or seminary education was necessary. The first people that he chose made their living fishing, and he saw a link to his ministry. They’d been catching fish, now they would fish for people. In one sense Jesus didn’t need them–he could have continued as a one-man act and been quite successful. People liked what he said, and they particularly appreciated the healing touch that he brought to their lives. He could have had personal acclaim and lived a full rich life. But that’s not what Jesus was up to. His vision was expansive and universal, and for the good news to spread he needed evangelists. We might question his first choices, but really, that’s what’s encouraging about his ministry. He could use anyone, and that’s what he did. His ragtag first draft choices have changed the world, and the story continues to be written. Any one of us can be a messenger and pass on the good news of God’s love and generous forgiveness, and the worse our credentials, the more effective we’ll be. When we open our ears it might just be that we’ll hear the gentle voice of the Christ inviting us to get on board and continue to change the world by telling the story.
Thought for the Day: With whom can I share the good news today?
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