Morning Devotional 073025 Answer the Call

Liz’s Morning Devotional: Scripture selected from Upper Room

July 30, 2025

Matthew 4:18-22

18 As Jesus walked alongside the Galilee Sea, he saw two brothers, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew, throwing fishing nets into the sea, because they were fishermen. 19 “Come, follow me,” he said, “and I’ll show you how to fish for people.” 20 Right away, they left their nets and followed him. 21 Continuing on, he saw another set of brothers, James the son of Zebedee and his brother John. They were in a boat with Zebedee, their father, repairing their nets. Jesus called them, and 22 immediately they left the boat and their father and followed him.

Good Morning! Jesus is calling us to follow him!

I have spent much time considering the gathering of the disciples over the years. Each had their story. Peter was a fisherman and married; Matthew was a tax collector. Several others were fishermen, and the occupations of the others were unknown, but we had Simon the Zealot (which was a different calling). 

Each had spent time procuring the tools of their trade and established relationships within the community in which they lived and worked. How remarkable that they would leave all that behind when Jesus called them. They did not know this at the time, but in following Jesus, their lives would be forever changed. 

I also imagine how they must have felt when Jesus was crucified. Everything was gone! We know from scripture that Peter and some of the others initially returned to fishing because that is where they encountered Jesus, who was preparing a meal on the shore for them to share. 

But other than the uncertain days following Jesus’ resurrection, these men would continue Jesus’ ministry, and, other than John, who lived to old age caring for Jesus’ mother, they would sacrifice their lives for Christ by continuing to preach the Word. 

If they had known what was to come, would they have declined the invitation, run away, or chosen to follow, knowing the consequences that had to happen? I believe that whether they immediately dropped their nets and followed, or it took more than one invitation, they would have recognized the authentic calling of God and followed Jesus.  

Of course, there is the obvious question that evolves from this conversation. If we were one of them, how would we have responded? Jesus is calling and will continue to call each of us to follow. Whether we answer in affirmation today or another day, those who answer will be given the gift of eternal life. Hallelujah! Amen!

Giving Lord, you bless us abundantly! You bless us with this great gift. Help us to open our hearts and fully take ownership of your gift of life. Thank you. We love you, Lord! In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen

Thought for the day: Have you answered Jesus’ call yet?

Are you listening? Jesus is calling you!  Pastor Liz