Daily Devotion, March 5, 2023

 

Devotion:

Read Matthew 4:18-22.

These first disciples Jesus called left behind their former life to learn a new life with him, but they probably also carried with them what would help in the new life. I love the language that he uses when he calls them. He put the calling in language they would quickly understand. It had to be intriguing to fishermen to hear Jesus say that he would teach them about fishing for a new target - for people.

A fisherman knows that you have to be familiar with where the fish are. (You don’t go fishing on land!) That understanding and others they would take with them as they went to follow Jesus. Yes, they would leave behind much of the tools and familiarity of their former trade, but some of it would be helpful. They would also have much to learn that was new. No longer would they be fishing just to benefit themselves and their family; they would be working to benefit the people for whom they were fishing.

The Holy Spirit is always seeking to teach us something new about “fishing for people” and serving the mission of our Lord. But that does not mean we have to leave behind everything we had already learned. Some of it can benefit us as we carry out that mission. What is it from your past that can help you “invite all to follow Jesus Christ”?

Personal Worship Option:

Consider this prayer today: Lord, help me be open to the new things you want to teach me, but to also be aware of what I have already been given that will help me serve your mission. In your holy name I pray, Amen.