Come, Follow

In a world where we face countless temptations each day, it is easy to be led astray. Children are encouraged by their school pals to follow this child or that one if they want them to “be their friend.” Teens are easily led into unhealthy peer groups where addictions to drugs and unsavory lifestyles abound. Adults, also, can be taken in by false advertising and following unhealthy internet sites or scams. Evil and darkness abound at our every turn.

Today we are led to think about Peter, Andrew, James and John. Here were four men tending to their business-a livelihood of fishing along the Sea of Galilee. Jesus sees them and bids them to come follow him. Without hesitation, in fact the Bible says immediately, they left their nets to follow Jesus. These men obviously saw and knew about the love and goodness that Jesus personified and went immediately with him. We today have the advantage of knowing Jesus through the scriptures, but how many of us are really willing and ready to follow immediately? Let our hearts be open to the call, and let our hands and feet be open to living and serving, whatever our age and whatever the need.

Calling God, help us live in the light with ears that are open to your invitation to love and serve. Amen. — EPS