our utah odyssey

"Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men. The immediately left their nets and followed Him." Matthew 4:18-22

These fishermen were not scholarly men. They were not of great influence, wealth, or social importance. They weren't necessarily poor, but simple, hardworking men. It seems that Jesus was looking for "ordinary" folks who were willing to give Him themselves. Jesus knew He could do anything with and through people who were available and willing. 

Let's take a look at the traits of fishermen...

Patience: Very rarely do we experience anything immediate in ministry. 

Perseverance: It's important to try and not get discouraged, but diligent and to try, try again. 

Courage: There's an old greek prayer of protection that includes "my boat is so small and the sea is so large..." fishermen have to be among the bravest people out there. Just watch one episode of "Deadliest Catch" on the discovery channel. We must be ready to take risks and "face the fury of the sea..." There is danger in telling people the truth. 

Timing: Choosing the right moment is key. There are times to speak and times to just be quiet.

Choosing the right bait: Paul said that he "must become all things to all men if by any chance I might win some..." Different approaches work for different people. 

There have been so many times that I have been so quick in making up my mind about certain people, only to be completely blown away by what God does in their life. I have also found that most people are just waiting to be invited along... They have all these gifts and talents sitting dormant and just need someone to recognize them to allow these things to bloom. I can say with absolute certainty that God can do anything through anyone... and by inviting people along, we have the opportunity to be part of that. Throughout the gospels, we read that the disciples frustrated Jesus... they weren't perfect, they were human beings. I know for a fact that I have driven plenty of people nuts as well... thank God for patience and grace. 

These fishermen were ready and willing. I have been affirmed time after time that being open and willing to be used by God is one of the most important things in life. Barclay writes a story about an ordinary man, Aeschines, who presented himself to Socrates. "I am a poor man, "said Aeschines. "I have nothing else, but I give myself." "Do you not see," said Socrates, "that you are giving me the most precious thing of all?"