“Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will send you out to fish for people.” At once they left their nets and followed him.

Matthew 4:19–20 NIV

Going on from there, he saw two other brothers … They were in a boat with their father, preparing their nets. Jesus called them and immediately they left the boat and their father and followed him.

Matthew 4:21–22 NIV

As Jesus went up front here, he saw a man named Matthew sitting at the tax collector’s booth. “Follow me,” he told him, and Matthew got up and followed him.

Matthew 9:9 NIV

Just like that they just left everything, even their father (which would have been a huge deal in their honor-shame culture). They followed Jesus without:

• a lengthy application process
• a Q & A session
• several days of prayer and fasting
• working through a list of pros and cons
• a job description
• a discussion of appropriate salary
• the promise of benefits
• a strategic plan of action
• a signed and notarized contract
• finding and training replacements
• or ensuring an income for their father

Their response reveals their trust in Jesus. It’s about their commitment to him, not their change in vocation. He would provide. He was worth following—actually following, as in literally going with him everywhere he went. He would provide, and with him they changed the world.

Because I’m such a list person, their response challenges me. What might be causing you to hesitate before following Jesus?

PRAYER

Heavenly Father, I’d like to imitate the disciples. But I confess I’m still learning to recognize your voice when you call out. I know that my circumstances are different and planning is also important, but that’s not my focus today. Today I want the same resolve, commitment, and trust to change course if Jesus says, “Follow me.” Grow that in me, Lord God.

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The Reality of Disciples and Rabbis