Are You Ready for a Thrill?
“Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will make you fishers of men.”
Matt. 4:19
Anyone who has enjoyed the adventure of dipping a line into the water knows that some pretty strange things can happen on a fishing trip. With all our technology and expertise, we like to think that we have mastered this unique sport. That’s about the time when some seven-year-old kid, fishing with a piece of corn from shore, catches a record breaking bass— as the professional bass fishermen look on.
Perhaps the greatest fishing story of all time came from a unique experience the Apostle Peter had during his time with Jesus. It appears that Jesus was often his houseguest during His three and a half year ministry. During this time, Jesus continued to disciple His twelve chosen students, eight of whom were fishermen.
Peter, Andrew, James, and John were partners in a community fishing venture located in Capernaum, on the Northwest side of the Sea of Galilee. Scripture suggests that Peter was most likely the top fisherman in the area. He also had his tough days when the fish were not to be found.
Perhaps his toughest challenge was to catch a specific fish using a rod and a hook without bait. Sounds like a real test? The temple tax, a silver coin called a stater or drachma, was needed to pay the levy for two individuals. When someone asked Jesus and Peter if they were above paying that tax, Jesus replied, “But so that we may not offend them, go to the lake and throw out your line. Take the first fish you catch; open its mouth and you will find a four-drachma coin. Take it and give it to them for my tax and yours.” Matt. 17:27. Peter caught a great fish on his first cast with a bare hook. The large silver coin was found in its mouth as promised by our Lord. What a thrill! Can you imagine paying your taxes from the bounty found in a fish’s gut?
Even though Peter would yet have times when he failed his Lord, this story demonstrates his obedience, faith, and trust in our Savior… even when it made no logical sense. Sound familiar? Sometimes God asks us to do strange things…things that are out of our comfort zone.
How is your faith? Are you willing to be an obedient disciple and follow Jesus? Take the rod of obedience, the line of faith, and the hook of perseverance, and follow the Lord’s leading in your life. The catch of a lifetime awaits you.
Nothing is more thrilling than watching people come to the Lord, and watching the Lord transform their lives. God is moving in a mighty way throughout our great land. Help with the harvest and get your line wet.
The Power of Truth:
- “Then Jesus came to them and said, ‘…Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you….’” Matt. 28:18-20a
- “Those who accepted his message were baptised, and about three thousand were added to their number that day.” Acts 2:41
Suggestion for Prayer:
If your Christian walk seems a little boring, or “your line” hasn’t seen much action lately, ask God for an opportunity to share the gospel with someone today!