The Gospel of Mark is really Peter's account as dictated to John Mark. It is a narrative of Jesus' miraculous works, yet it provides a strong picture of the humanity of Jesus as well. Mark 1:16-18 tells of the calling of Simon (Peter) and Andrew. In this brief encounter, Jesus reveals the pattern of discipleship. He calls, He transforms, and He deploys. "Follow Me" is the call. "I will make you" is the transformation. "Fishers of men" is His deployment of His followers into the world.
Your response is key. When Jesus calls, you must obey quickly and without reservation. These men were professional fishermen and business owners. But at the call of Jesus, they left it all to follow Him. Following Jesus means a reordering of the priorities and embracing His values. Have you heard His call and followed Him?
When you follow Him, He begins His work of transforming you. There is no expectation of perfection, but there is an expectation of intimacy, obedience, and growth. Are you spending time in His presence daily? Are you reading His word, Praying, and listening? Are you quick to obey?
As He does His transforming work in your life, He expects you to be about the work of fishing for men. Fundamentally, YOU are the bait by which the Holy Spirit entices others to the Cross. The changes in your life, your testimony of what He is doing in your life, your attitude, your tone, your language, your kindness are all things that he uses. Quite literally, IF you follow Him closely and submit to His transforming power, He will use you as a missionary wherever you go.
The call is clear and it is the same today as it was for Peter, Andrew, James, and John. "Follow Me and I will make you fishers for people!" But nothing will change unless you get up, let go, and follow Him.
