“As Jesus was walking beside the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon called Peter and his brother Andrew. They were casting a net into the lake, for they were fishermen. ‘Come, follow me,’ Jesus said, ‘and I will send you out to fish for people.’ At once they left their nets and followed him.” Matthew 4: 18-20
You don’t have to be a pastor to be in the field of ministry. I will say it again, you don’t have to be a pastor to be in the field of ministry. Everyday “normal” people who work regular jobs have the opportunity to do God’s work. Sometimes, I feel as if our world perceives that our Pastors are the only ones who need to work for God. However, it’s flipped the other way! There are way more people working other jobs than just in the ministry field. It’s our responsibility to live out God’s characteristics and traits in our everyday lives no matter our career. Regardless of the field in which we work, we have the opportunity to impact the lives of others. We live in an ever-changing world. One that now lives more on phone screens than in-person gatherings. A world that has more empathy for sporting events, than for finding common ground on real issues.
So today I challenge you to fish for people. As we read in the text, God called two brothers working the fishing nets to find new followers. These weren’t necessarily people who were first in their class or had the fanciest education. Two human beings, who were doing their job, were called to serve.
What have you been called to do? Have you been challenged to train a new person at work? Maybe you are grieving for a loved one that you have recently lost. Or even have a new baby in the family giving you plenty of restless nights. Guess what, there are many others going through those exact same challenges! Go out and find them. Share your struggles, your human emotions that keep you up at night. Search for common situations that have made you into the person that you are today. Go out and fish for people. Let them help you. Pray together, share your feelings, and follow God. Let us pray.
by Kurt Hamilton
Prayer
God let us cast a wide net. A net that is welcoming to all who are willing to listen. Let us use your words and teachings to remind people that they are loved. That you are always there for them. Not only as a savior, as a friend, an ear to listen, and as a father. God, when we are called into action, show us how to act. Remind us of your lessons, shown in the example of your son Jesus, to help others. Let us share with others that your net is endless, and one that is available for anyone. We give thanks for these many blessings that you share and say all these things in your son’s name. Amen.