Happy Friday church family!

From the amount of vehicles towing boats heading north past my house, it looks like many of us are taking advantage of the fishing season which kicked off Saturday. I haven’t made it out myself, but pray that those of you who’ve gone have had success, and a safe and enjoyable time! There is just something special about being out on the water, enjoying company, the good weather (hopefully!), and the thrill of the catch – and the ability to put food on the table and in the freezer.

It is pretty amazing that of all the trades that you’d think would make good disciples, Jesus picked a lot of fishermen. When he called Peter, Andrew, James and John he told them that instead of being fishermen, he would make them fishers OF men from then on. And these successful, professional fishermen dropped everything - immediately. They left behind businesses, incomes, predictability, and really everything they knew to follow Jesus.

It is a good reminder for us that when Jesus calls us – he doesn’t say “Can I join you?” No – he says “Follow me!” We are to leave our old lives behind and not try to drag them along with us. Imagine Peter saying “Yes, Lord! I will follow you!” and try to drag his boat and nets and all that along with him as he followed Jesus around the countryside. It wouldn’t have worked very well! Sometimes it’s good to ask yourself - what part of your old life are you anchored to as you try to follow Jesus?

-- In faith, Pastor Eric

As Jesus walked beside the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and his brother Andrew casting a net into the lake, for they were fishermen. “Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will send you out to fish for people.” At once they left their nets and followed him. Mark 1:16-18 NIV