November 19, 2017: SOAP #2908:  Matt 1-4

Scripture:  Matthew (NIV) 4:18 As Jesus was walking beside the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon called Peter and his brother Andrew. They were casting a net into the lake, for they were fishermen.  19 “Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will make you fishers of men.”  20 At once they left their nets and followed him.

Observation:  Jesus was looking for some key individuals to be His disciples.  He did not open an office in the local synagogue where He could manage His ministry and call in people for interviews.  He did not go to a job agency to find people needing a job.  He did not put an ad in the local newspaper or post a note on a local bulletin board.  He personally went out where people were living their normal lives. He went “walking beside the Sea of Galilee.”  He went where people were busy working their normal jobs.  There He found those in whose care He would leave His church.

Application:  At this time in my life, God has moved me out of a church office centered ministry to driving a school bus and the SOAP ministry out of my home office.  More than before, I am out “walking” where “future disciples” live and work.  I need to keep my eyes open to the people around me.

Prayer:   Holy Spirit, keep me aware of the people around me.  May I see them as You see them.  I appreciate your trusting me with the opportunity to interact with so many people that you love people who have the potential to be Your disciples. Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!