Scripture:
Mark 1: 17-18 – And Jesus said to them, “Follow me, and I will make you become fishers of men.” And immediately they left their nets and followed him.
Observation:
Jesus begins his ministry by saying the time is fulfilled, the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel. Jesus then calls the first disciples by telling them to follow him. He calls ordinary people, fisherman, to respond to his calling. The disciples did not tell Jesus they had to finish with their days catch they responded by following him immediately. Jesus told the disciples he would make them into people who call others to God.
Application:
January 1, 2019 New Year and the kingdom of God is at hand. I am called to repent, leave my prior lifestyle and believe in the gospel. As a believer in Christ, I must follow Jesus as he has kingdom authority. God calls us to walk with Christ to bring humans back into relation with him. As I walk with/follow Jesus, my life will change to be a witness for the gospel.
Prayer:
Father,
Thank you for your love, grace and mercy in sending Jesus to pay for my sins so I can repent, be reconciled and have a relationship with you. Let me recognize the kingdom of God is at hand and follow Jesus. Help the Spirit guide me to witness and disciple others.