Fishing

 

And Jesus, walking by the sea of Galilee, saw two brethren, Simon called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea: for they were fishers. And he saith unto them, Follow me and I will make you fishers of men. And they straightway left their nets, and followed him

- Matthew 4:18-20

 

In a coastal area, there are so many ways to enjoy fishing. Deep-sea fishing is probably the most costly and often the boats return with large bounties of fish from miles offshore. The sport fisherman may also like pier fishing. Some, including my husband, enjoys surf casting from the sandy shore into the area just beyond the breaking waves. Tackle shops are filled with all the necessary equipment, lures, rods and reels. Sometimes the passion for fishing is passed down from one generation to another. And then there is the commercial fisherman who depends on the weather and his boat and the sturdiness of his nets to capture enough fish to earn an income. This is hard work, but for those that do it, they would tell you, there is no other job for them. The patient fisherman most always enjoys being rewarded with a bountiful catch.

 

God wants us all to be fishers of men. He expects us to share our faith and to witness to others. We don’t need all the lures and trappings of a seasoned fisherman to do this. Like a fisherman however, we can approach witnessing in many different ways. God will show us what to do. All we need is the genuine desire to serve Him. The Holy Spirit is within to strengthen us when we feel His calling. Just living an obedient life, raising our families with Christian values and attending church is a silent witness to those around that are observing us. We may be examples of godly living without even being aware of it! This is my father’s glory that you bear much fruit, sharing yourself to be my disciples. John 15:8