Following Jesus!

As Jesus began calling disciples to FOLLOW HIM, those who accepted the invitation came from various walks of life. Other than them not being among the prestigious of the day, we don't know a whole lot about their former life, but what we do know is significant. For example, when we read of the calling of the first four we should note the following about them.

With regard to the brothers Simon (Peter) and Andrew we read. . .
"And immediately THEY LEFT THEIR NETS AND FOLLOWED HIM." ( Mark 1:18 ESV)

With regard to the brothers James and John, as they were mending their nets, we read. . .
"And immediately he called them, and THEY LEFT THEIR FATHER Zebedee in the boat with the hired servants AND FOLLOWED HIM." ( Mark 1:20 ESV)

To follow Jesus, there was something they LEFT BEHIND. Following Jesus became the most significant focus to them. Did they ever fish again? Yes! (i.e. John 21:3-8; Mathew 17:27) However, that was no longer the center of their life. Jesus became the center of their life focus.

Now, not everyone who followed Jesus was told to leave their occupation. However, is there anything we have LEFT BEHIND to follow Him? If we are trying to drag all of the old life behind us, we will have difficulty following Jesus and fulfilling the work He desires us to do.

Remember Jesus' exhortation regarding being His disciples when He said. . .
"And calling the crowd to him with his disciples, he said to them, "If anyone would come after me, let him DENY HIMSELF AND TAKE UP HIS CROSS AND FOLLOW ME." ( Mark 8:34 ESV)

When we recognize that which hinders our following Jesus, may we be as eager and quick as the disciples were when Jesus invited them to follow. With such an attitude we will find freedom to serve His purposes as His Work is done in and through our life. Above all, may we keep our own interests out of the way. In this way we will find our best interests cared for by Him.

Have a great day KEEPING SELF OUT OF THE WAY AS WE WALK IN HIS WAY!
Carl

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