Garry spoke this evening about leaving what we think we need, based on Luke 5:1-11. This is a familiar passage to many of us, when Jesus calls His first disciples, and it is easy to skim read, thinking we know the story so it has nothing new to teach us. God’s word always has something new to teach us, though!
Jesus was led by the Spirit on many occasions (see Luke 4:1) as were other followers (see Acts 8:26-29). Those who are led by the Spirit are children of God (Rom 8:14) and this is an occasion that might appear random initially, but is clearly God moving in the lives of Simon Peter and his brother.
Simon probably thought that Jesus’s command would not lead to a huge haul of fish, but he was wrong. They were astonished at the size of the catch they made; it was a jaw-dropping moment! Simon Peter realises in this moment that Jesus is far more than an ordinary teacher and can provide for him in ways he cannot imagine.
In calling the fishermen to follow Him, Jesus gave them a choice. They could stay with what they knew or they could follow Him and go into the unknown. They were willing to leave the familiar and step out in faith. Are we prepared to leave the safety of what God Himself has given to us and step into the unknown and unfamiliar? The challenge is here for all of us, for God calls us all to follow Him.