"Come, follow me," Jesus said, "and I will make you fishers of men." Matthew 4:19
Jesus’ life had a specific purpose – it was all about fishing. I’m not talking about fishing for fins and scales. His goal was to make each of us fishers for the hearts and souls of the men and women who matter to God – that’s you and that’s me. Christ’s purpose for us is very simple. It is very powerful. Jesus told us to fish. Jesus did not tell us to be catchers of men – he told us to fishers of men. He will do the catching.
One of the most important things to do when you fish is have the ability to brave the elements. You've got to get out in the water, put the bait on the hook, and get a little slimy, a little dirty. That’s what Christ has called us to do. We are called to go out, brave the elements, and cast out to people God’s word. Jesus told us to get out of our comfort zone, search for the people who do not know him, and then cast.
If you are worried about being comfortable, if you don’t really want to get dirty and do the work that it takes to fish for hearts and souls, then you are not following Christ’s purpose. He did not bring you to where you are just so you could stop and work on your tan. He brought you here so that you could reach out with passion to find those who are lost.
Fishing is an active sport, one that takes work. You have to talk and communicate and share with people. The greatest thing about sharing your faith is that you are not alone. You are in a partnership with God. You can accept Christ’s purpose and know that you are not going to be in that boat alone.
As you go through this week, think of those people in your life that don’t know Christ. Are you doing what Jesus asked of you? Ask those people to come to church with you. Cast God’s word to them. Don’t worry about catching them – leave that up to Jesus. All you have to do is fish.
