Sunday’s Readings: Isaiah 8:23—9:3; Psalm 27:1, 4, 13-14; 1 Corinthians 1:10-13, 17; Matthew 4:12-23 or 4:12-17
…From your Pastor’s Desk
Brothers and Sisters in Christ, today’s Gospel from Matthew 4 shows Jesus beginning His mission: moving to the darkness of Galilee, proclaiming the Kingdom’s arrival, and calling ordinary fishermen—Peter, Andrew, James, John—to “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men”.
This isn’t just history; it’s our call! Jesus sees potential in ordinary people in ordinary places, just as He saw it in the fishermen by the Sea of Galilee.
He calls us to leave our nets—our comfort zones, fears, and old ways—to bring His light and healing to the world, to preach the Kingdom in our own “Galilees,” and to be His disciples, making disciples, right where we are.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
The Kingdom is Here: Jesus announces, “Repent, for the Kingdom of heaven is at hand”. This means God’s rule is breaking into our world through His presence and actions.
Ordinary Called to Extraordinary: He calls ordinary men from their ordinary work to do something extraordinary. He believes ordinary people like us can do His work.
Follow and Fish: The call is to “Follow me.” Our response involves leaving our nets (attachments, sins) and learning to “fish” for souls by bringing the Good News and healing to others, just as Jesus did.
Light in Darkness: Jesus’s ministry brings light to those in darkness, fulfilling prophecy. Our lives, empowered by Him, are meant to be that light.
So, as you look at your own “lake,” your daily tasks, ask: Where is Jesus calling me to follow Him today? What nets do I need to drop to become a fisher of men in my own corner of Galilee?
Let’s answer with, “Here I am, Lord, send me!” Amen.
Father Ron
