From Creation to CallingSample

A total U-turn.

That’s how we usually think about the disciples responding to Jesus’ invitation to follow Him. It’s probably a fairly valid image when you realize that they walked away from their job, families, and friends. They pledged themselves to live for Jesus and ultimately most of them died for the Truth He taught.

The Bible indicates that several of them were fishermen. We hear plenty about what Jesus called His disciples to leave behind, but not as much about what He expected them to bring with them. Was it just a figure of speech when Jesus connected their physical work to their spiritual roles? Why does the Bible mention His comment that He would make them “fishers of men?” Fishing is hard physical labor that requires teamwork to haul in the nets, and a lot of patience and even faith since you are not guaranteed to hit a school of fish every time. Sometimes we overlook the period between Jesus’ death and when He appeared to His disciples. John’s account records that the resurrected Jesus appeared to the disciples after a long night of fishing. After years of walking with Jesus, hearing Him teach hundreds of times, and seeing the lives He changed and the miracles He performed, just imagine the impact of something as familiar as casting a net. How did all the time they spent with Jesus radically impact their everyday work and relationships?

How will the time you spend with Jesus impact your work? Consider something for a minute: Your ability to learn foreign languages, your leadership skills, your understanding of numbers, or any of the other skills and experiences that are pointing you in the direction of your life work may be exactly the same talents and gifts God will use to advance His kingdom. The truth is that God will use your gifts, talents, work, and even the platform He gives you, to provide you with opportunities to share His love, mercy, and forgiveness with those you encounter. From filing to fishing, from the bus to the boardroom, you have the choice to do everything in a way that brings God glory.

Reflection Questions:

1. What are some ways your work can bring God glory?
2. Has there been a time when following God cost you to lose your boss’ favoritism?
3. How has God used you to disciple someone else?