As children, we played a fun game called “Follow the Leader.” One child was chosen as the “Leader,” and the rest of the group would follow the leader’s commands. Examples included “Touch your toes,” “Reach to the sky,” and “Lie down on the floor.” The room was filled with laughter as we tried to follow the leader’s instructions as quickly as possible.
Although this was a child’s game, its purpose was to teach young children the importance of following instructions. It is also essential for both children and adults to assess whether a leader can be trusted and should be obeyed.
As Jesus was walking by the shore of the Sea of Galilee, He saw Simon (Peter) and Simon’s brother, Andrew, casting a net in the sea; for they were fishermen. And Jesus said to them, “Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men.” Immediately, they left their nets and followed Him.
- Mark 1:16-18
Come, Follow Me
Jesus walked beside the Sea of Galilee and invited two fishermen, “Come, follow me.” It’s notable that Jesus called two brothers. Simon (Peter) and Andrew already worked together—fishing on the Sea of Galilee late at night, hauling in their nets, cleaning fish, and repairing their gear.
This was not a casual invitation to become His disciples; rather, it meant leaving behind their familiar way of life. Jesus used an example that Simon and Andrew would easily understand. They were fishermen by trade—born and raised on the Sea of Galilee. They had endured hard work, storms at sea, and discouragement after a failed night of fishing.
Simon and Andrew would no longer earn a living from fishing. Instead, they would spend their time listening to Jesus’ teachings and instructions. They would begin walking a new path of life with Him and invite others to follow Jesus.
Going a little farther, He saw James, the son of Zebedee, and his brother John, who were also in the boat, mending and cleaning the nets. Immediately, Jesus called to them, and they left their father Zebedee in the boat with the hired workers and went away to follow Him.
- Mark 1:19-20
Immediately
Walking a little farther, Jesus calls two more brothers—James and John—who work with their father, Zebedee, fishing on the Sea of Galilee. Once again, brothers.
Three of these men were Jesus’ closest companions during His earthly ministry. Simple fishermen called into ministry that would change their lives and play key roles in spreading the gospel message.
Jesus’ disciples believed in Him and trusted Him. Throughout the Gospels, we see how they sought to follow His example and learn how to live in a way that would bring glory to their Heavenly Father.
Head to Heart
How would you respond to Jesus’ call, “Come, follow Me?” Would you follow immediately?
If you have already chosen to follow Jesus, consider the following Bible verse. Why is it important for believers to follow Jesus’ teaching and example?
And Jesus said to them, “Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men.”
- Mark 1:17
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We can only follow Jesus if we are willing to "forsake all others", including ourselves. In union with the Son of God, nothing can shake us. He is our Rock, our Fortress. Praise His Holy Name!