Monday, February 26, 2024  

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Today's Hymn
“Dear Lord and Father of Mankind”

In simple trust like theirs who heard beside the Syrian sea
the gracious calling of the Lord,
let us, like them, without a word
rise up and follow thee.

by John Greenleaf Whittier
Hymn 169, Glory to God
verse 2

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Reflection

The verse of this hymn references the Gospel verses that tell the story of Simon (Peter), Andrew, James, and John. Jesus invites these men to drop everything and follow him, to become his disciples. And impulsively they do!

Is this what we need to do to be disciples of Christ? Do we need to walk away from our family, our livelihood, our obligations and responsibilities in answer to his call?

Perhaps there is a different way to accept Jesus’ invitation to discipleship. Maybe what we must walk away from, while very real, is simply less tangible.

To be Christ’s disciple one must be nonjudgmental. As a disciple, you must walk away from feeling morally superior to others.

To be Christ’s disciple one must be humble. As a disciple, you must let go of your pride, stop bringing attention to yourself and boasting about your accomplishments to others.

To be Christ’s disciple one must act selflessly. As a disciple, your good works cannot make you worthy of God’s love. You must stop trying to earn God’s grace, because it’s given to you freely.

To be Christ’s disciple one must accept forgiveness. As a disciple you must release the guilt and shame you carry from past transgressions and accept God’s salvation.

When we reach out to others humbly and openly and share the good news of Jesus and salvation, we are casting our net to be fishers of people.

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Prayer
Gracious God, thank you for calling me to be one of your fishers. Help me to reflect your love through my actions. Lord, lead me to find ways to share with others the good news of your salvation. Amen.

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Written by Sarah Younger, Member of Fourth Presbyterian Church

Reflection and Prayer © Fourth Presbyterian Church

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