Mark 1:14-20
After John had been arrested, Jesus came to Galilee proclaiming the Gospel of God, “This is the time of fulfillment. The Kingdom of God is at hand. Repent, and believe in the Gospel.”
As he passed by the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and his brother Andrew casting their nets into the sea; they were fishermen. Jesus said to them, “Come after me, and I will make you fishers of men.”
Then they left their nets and followed him. He walked along a little farther and saw James, the son of Zebedee, and his brother John.
The Daily Path: Are you open to the daily call of Christ?
In today’s Gospel we learn that Simon, Andrew, James and John were personally invited to join Jesus. All dropped what they were doing to follow Him.
At some point during this day, and again tomorrow, I know that I, too, will be called in some way to follow His teaching. Hopefully, in these moments, I will hear the call and be willing to drop my net and act.
Good News To-Go! 
Our pastor this week read the same passage from the Bible to start his sermon. His message this week was that Christians, including himself, want to study and learn more about Jesus and the Bible rather than take action. He said that John 1-14 may be the most important message in the Bible … “And the Word became Flesh.” It does not say – And the Word became more Words. He pointed out that Jesus did not say to the fishermen come and let’s study what it means to be a Christian. He said “Come, Follow Me and I will make you Fishers of Men.” Take action, not study.
This was a very powerful message to me, because I personally have always felt that I don’t have enough theological knowledge to teach others and perhaps if I keep learning I’ll be able to help others someday come to the Christian faith. Jesus obviously believes otherwise!
Joyful regards,
Dr Joy
I usually don’t respond to comments as I generally just sit back and quietly appreciate everyone’s willingness to openly share their genuine feelings. After reading the good Doctor’s comments I am inspired to respond because he touches on something I try to be mindful of.
I’m no theologian. In so many ways I remain illiterate in the details of my faith and Scripture. I can only speak to my own experience on the spiritual journey and my personal interpretation of what I find in the Gospel. At first I was afraid to share my thoughts with others because, like you, I felt insufficiently educated to do so. Yes, dear friends, despite twelve years of Catholic school and through no fault of the Sisters of Notre Dame deNamur, I’m still a Scriptural dunce.
Despite my many flaws and endless authoritative shortcomings, for some reason the Lord called upon me to drop my net and act. I don’t know why God chose me out of the crowd. Perhaps He wants others like me to follow suit and give their witness so more can be called home. Regardless of the reason, I’m grateful for the grace and courage He’s given me to trek in unknown territory equipped only with a genuine heart (and without benefit of any theo-credentials).