And he said to them, “Follow me, and I will make you fish for people.”

Matthew 4:19
a woman in costume reading

During Lent I portrayed Mary, Mother of James and John.  I deeply felt her loss when her husband, who had been fishing with his sons, ran into the house shouting they’re gone!  He told her that while they were fishing a “stranger” came upon them and said, “Follow me, and I will make you fish for people”.  I know if that had happened to me, I would have been crying and mourning the loss of my children giving no thought to the words of the “stranger.”

The meaning of the “stranger’s” words is in The message MSG “do all that you can to reach men for Jesus”. “We are commanded by Jesus to go out and fish for lost souls that do not know Jesus.” 

Hmmm…. In today’s world would we have the faith and trust to blindly follow a stranger who says “Follow me” to “fish” for lost souls?  Maybe not, BUT, we can recognize and reach out to people who are in need of spiritual guidance.  We can extend an invitation to them to visit our church, and if needed, provide transportation for them.

On occasion I have reached out to someone, extended an invitation to visit my church service, Sunday School, or a class offering.  My mission going forward is to have more awareness of other’s spiritual needs and offer to provide a conduit to meet those needs.

How about you, are you ready to “fish” for people in need of our Lord God Jesus Christ?

Nancy Kindervater