Lots of motives and events influence people who switch their path in life for a new one. In today’s Gospel we hear of our fishermen – Simon, Andrew, James and John – who dropped their fishing nets when Jesus called them to follow Him. They left behind their daily routine as the Sea of Galilee as soon as they heard the call to a new life. God has a way of showing up in the ordinary places and interrupting the daily routines. This was also the experience of Jonah in today’s first reading, who was sent on a mission by God to the city of Niniveh. When these men accepted the invitation, their lives were different for ever. God’s call led them into uncertain but inspirational future.
Whatever your life is, however you spend your time, whatever circumstances affect normal living, there is in that life Jesus’ call to “Follow me”. It is a call to participate in God’s saving work and the building up of the kingdom of God. That work is always about moving to a larger vision, orienting life in a new direction and experiencing that our own story of life is connected to a much larger story of life, God’s life. It happens in context of our everyday activities: work, school, families, paying the bills, running errands, fixing dinner, relationships and trying to do the right thing. The call to follow Jesus is the call to discipleship. It was not an easy then and it will not be easy now. Christian discipleship is the commitment to live a Gospel life, a marginal life in this place, at this time, whatever the cost. True discipleship means being a witness for justice and peace even in situations of injustice or war. We choose our careers and jobs hoping that we can use the gifts and talents God has given us. What might God be asking you to leave behind? What is standing in the way of you following Jesus today? Christ is calling you. How will you respond?