Fishing

And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men. Matthew 4:19

I'm a little late posting this week. We finally had the opportunity to get away for a few days, so we took the grands camping. The campground was on Lake Julian Price in Western NC. Kady and I hiked part way around the lake looking for wildlife. She spotted some fish off the pier but she didn't have a pole or bait to "haul in a catch".

We observed three boys fishing along the water's edge. Each one had a pole, a bobber, bait and the excitement to get the job done. We noticed how attentive they were to their poles and especially to the bobbers. The slightest jiggle and the boys were ready to reel in a fish. They were teaching the younger boys how it was done. Regardless of who got a bite, all the boys were excited and encouraging. They never knew we were watching. The excitement rubbed off on us too. Even on the other side of the lake we heard them yelp about a catch. Kady was almost jumping up and down. "They got one! They got one!"

Jesus said to follow Him and he would make us fishers of men. How does that work? Notice first, it's in the plural. Fishing is not a one person job. We need partners and equipment. We need knowledge of the scripture. We need prayer. And we need to study and pray together. People, like fish, are hungry. Only, people are hungry for something to fill the empty spot in their hearts. Jesus is the bait, if you will, the food. He is the bread of life. He is the only way to peace and happiness.

When we bring along the necessities of "fishing for men" we also need to bring along the excitement and the encouragement and the love that will make the difference. There needs to be that joy that is evident even to observers when one is saved.

Too bad Kady and I didn't have a pole and bait. Joining in the fishing would have been great fun. Fishing for men is fun and exciting as well, if we always come equipped. Do you have the equipment and a partner to go fishing for men? Won't you share your fishing experiences with us?

Blessings,

Gail

Hey Kids:

Maybe someone you know would love to take an afternoon to do a little fishing. We'd love to see your pictures.