Hello Gloria Dei,
I love the Bible verses we will be reading in worship this weekend. As recorded in Matthew chapter 4, verses 18-23, Jesus is down by the Sea of Galilee, and he calls out to four fishermen, Peter, Andrew, James, and John and he says to them “Follow Me and I will make you fish for people.” This account shows up in the gospels of Mark and Luke as well.
First of all, we can all be thankful that Jesus has “fished and caught each of us.” I’ve often heard it said that faith in Jesus is caught rather than taught. Sometimes good news is so good that we are caught by it and swept into a life filled with that good news. That’s the way it is with God’s love, grace, and forgiveness, centered in Christ.
And then, secondly, we get to share the good news with others. I’ve been fortunate enough in the game of golf to have had two hole-in-ones. Those require more luck than skill, by the way. But when I got them, I couldn’t help but let my friends and family know the good news. Good news is meant to be shared.
I’ll be preaching this weekend on having the privilege of being called by Jesus to “fish for people”. It is truly the mission and vision Jesus gives to us.
And speaking of vision, I’ve had numerous conversations with many of you already regarding the local and national election results from this past Tuesday. Some of you have been filled with joy; others of you are feeling different levels of disappointment. For some, emotions are running high. Election days and results are important, and emotions show that you care.
Yet, it is good for all of us as Christians to remember that Jesus has always offered peace to us as individuals and in our life together, guiding us to be compassionate and kind, especially when emotions run high. Scripture reminds us often that not only is God present and at work in our world, but also that we, as the church, are called to be communities of hope, love, and compassion. As God’s people, we continue to take our baptismal mandate seriously and with joy: “Let your light shine before others that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.”
I ask you to please keep our world, our nation, and all those in positions of authority in your prayers. We pray that our elected leaders will act in wise ways and to work for the common good of all.
May you all be blessed by the love and grace of God, whose Son calls you to a life of following him and, on his behalf, a life given over to “fishing for people” with the same love and grace that has been gifted to you.
See you in worship,
Pastor Tim
