Follow Me

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.  They too were in a boat mending their nets.  Then he called them.  So they left their father Zebedee in the boat along with the hired men and followed him.  Mark 1: 14 – 20

Today we once again begin the Liturgical Season of Ordinary Time.  The Christmas season has come to an end and know we are back to that time between seasons when we are given the opportunity to reflect on the ordinary things of life.  In today’s Gospel Jesus calls Simon Peter, Andrew, James and John to follow Him.  He invited them to be “fishers of men.”  They were to cast out their net and gather all people and bring them to Jesus.  Imagine receiving the personal invitation to follow Jesus and work for Him.  I think they must have experienced a myriad of emotions – joy, happiness, fear and anger.  They were being called to embrace the unfamiliar and must have been terrified.  We too are often called to do the same.  Situations arise and we need to rely on our courage to find the best solution.  As we live this day let us remember that Jesus has always promised to be with us and we only need to ask for help.  He does listen to our prayers and responds in His time. 

Pat Schifini, OSU