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. 

Been Fishing?

Fear not; from henceforth thou shalt catch men. Luke 5:10b

Fishing - What better way to spend a hot summer afternoon than fishing. It’s exciting to suddenly feel the tug on your line and reel one in. No matter how small or how big catching a fish puts everyone into action –snatching the line, grabbing a net, laughter and shouts; “Don’t lose him!” Even the fish is wriggling and jiggling. But to fish all day or all night and catch nothing is boring and disheartening.

Peter, James and John fished all night and caught nothing – boring. Jesus asked to use Peter’s boat as a pulpit so the people could see and hear him better. After Jesus finished, he asked Peter to go out a little farther and let down his net. Peter told the Lord they fished all night and caught nothing, but because Jesus asked he would try again. This time the net was full and breaking. Peter needed help. He called his fishing buddies, James and John. Both boats were filled with fish. Peter was afraid because he knew he had to be in the presence of God. Only God could work such a miracle. Jesus said, Don’t be afraid. From now on you will catch men.

Peter, James and John became great preachers who saw many people come to Christ. How exciting to “catch” others for Jesus and see their lives change. Who would you like to catch?

Try this craft to help you remember you are fishing everyday for Jesus.

You will need:

1 paper plate or dessert plate

1 pair of scissors

Glue, tape or stapler

Crayons, markers, or paints

Some fishing line or string

Cut the center from the plate for the body of the fish.

Cut fins and a tail from the crinkly edged scraps.

Glue, tape or staple the fins and tail to the body.

Decorate the fish with crayons, markers or paint.

Use a marker to write the names of the people you would like to “catch” for Jesus.

Attach the fishing line at the mouth with tape.

Hang your fish where you will remember to read the names every day.

Begin fishing by praying for the names on your fish. You can also pray for yourself that your actions and words will show them Jesus. Go fishing and let Jesus give you a boat load!

Peter, James and John