And Jesus said to them, Follow me, and I will make you fish for people." Matthew 4:19
How do you know? How did James and John, Peter and Andrew know that Jesus was the One? He called. They followed. There are songs about Jesus calling. Jesus Calls us O’er the Tumult comes to mind. I also think of the much beloved, Softly and Gently Jesus is calling. What comes to mind for you when hear the language of “call” and “calling”. I hope you will join us this weekend as we hear in Matthew’s Gospel Jesus calling Peter and Andrew, James and John to follow him and fish for people. Fish for people?? Curious?...
In Bible Study this week we reflected on this account of disciples being called, we conversed about the variety of callings. A calling to marriage, a calling to teach, to calling to ministry, a call to directing, a call to parenting were a few that we considered. The list is not limited. Paul in Romans 12 writes:
4For as in one body we have many members, and not all the members have the same function, 5 so we, who are many, are one body in Christ, and individually we are members one of another. 6 We have gifts that differ according to the grace given to us: Romans 12:4-6a
Calling and gifts are connected for me. This quote by one of my favorite theologians has walked with me for many years.
“The place to which God calls you is the place where your deep gladness and the world's deep hunger meet.
- Frederick Beuchner
The phrase “Jesus calling” also brings to mind the name of a devotional book of which I have heard and not read. Here is a brief review of the book Jesus Calling by Sarah Young. After many years of writing her own words in her prayer journal, missionary Sarah Young decided to be more attentive to the Savior's voice and begin listening for what He was saying. So with pen in hand, she embarked on a journey that forever changed her--and many others around the world.
In these powerful pages are the words and Scriptures Jesus lovingly laid on her heart. Words of reassurance, comfort, and hope. Words that have made her increasingly aware of His presence and allowed her to enjoy His peace.
Call. Called. Calling. Disciples. Following…. May this scripture, hymns, quote and a book that maybe you have read or would like to read spark in you a holy curiosity to consider your call, where you are being called, your calling. It’s me, it’s you, it’s us, it’s love, it’s Christ that builds community and we are all called.