Follow Me
By John Wight of Blue Springs, MO, USA
“Follow me, and I will make you fish for people.” —Matthew 4:19 NRSV
Have you ever been at one end of a construction zone impatiently waiting for the flagger to turn the sign from “Stop” to “Slow”? And then a truck pulls in front of you with a sign that says “Follow Me.” When that first happened to me, I thought, “Why do I need to follow you? It’s just a construction zone.” I quickly learned why as the truck led the line of cars through some rather rough, and sometimes unmarked, areas of the construction zone.
Without the leader, it would have been difficult, if not impossible, to find one’s way through. And, of course, by having that truck in front, the speed of those following could be kept at a safe pace.
Jesus provides such guidance through the construction zones of life. His teachings, ministry, and life provide much-needed help in finding our way to the “abundant life” he promised.
But the scripture passage from which the phrase “Follow me” is taken has another facet. Jesus went on to say, “…and I will make you fish for people.” While we receive the joy, hope, love, peace—and guidance—of Jesus as we follow him, we are also encouraged to share what we have found in him with others along the way. As the Community of Christ Mission Initiative says, we are called to Invite People to Christ.
What a wonderful opportunity to not only have the “Follow Me” truck (Jesus) helping us but to point others to that source of guidance through life’s construction zones! With whom do you need to intentionally share the “Follow Me” truck?
Prayer Phrase
May I see your light in all life.
Invitation to Spiritual Practice
Light of God
Close your eyes, and become centered with your breath. As you breathe gently in and out, reflect on the statement, “The light of God is in all things.” The light has a bright, soft beauty and radiates God’s healing love. The light of God reaches you and permeates you with a deep sense of peace. Rest in the light as it surrounds and fills you. Thank God that you live in God’s light, and it lives in you.
Today’s Prayer for Peace
Engage in a daily practice of praying for peace in our world. Click here to read today’s prayer and be part of this practice of peace.
