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Repentance and calling!

Scripture reading for July 21st: 2nd Kings 2-3, Psalm 48, Matthew 4

Matthew 4:17-22 “From that time Jesus began to preach, saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” While walking by the Sea of Galilee, He saw two brothers, Simon (who is called Peter) and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea, for they were fishermen. And he said to them, “Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men.”

Jesus Christ began His ministry after spending forty days in the wilderness being tempted by the devil. His opening statement was “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” Jesus, the King, had arrived on earth and was calling out to all who would listen and believe His Word. His next step was to begin to call individuals to Himself and train and equip them to reach lost people and spoil the devil’s kingdom. These first two He called, Simon Peter and Andrew, were brothers who were fishermen by trade. Jesus challenged them to fish for men! They dropped their nets and accepted His call to them. They changed their mind (repentance) concerned their occupation and calling and Jesus used their obedience to build His Church through calling and equipping disciples!

Psalm 48:9-10 “We have thought on your steadfast love, O God, in the midst of your temple. As Your Name, O God, so Your praise reaches to the ends of the earth. Your right hand is filled with righteousness.”

Prayer: Father God, thank You for calling us to repentance and faith to follow Your Son Jesus Christ, our only Savior! Your steadfast love and faithfulness to us causes us to praise You! Your righteousness is made known through Your Son and those who in faith follow Him take His Name and praise to the ends of the earth! Teach me daily how to fish for men, casting the Gospel net to bring in a great catch!

2nd Kings 2:9-10 “When they had crossed, Elijah said to Elisha, “Ask what I shall do for you, before I am taken from you.” And Elisha said, Please let there be a double portion of your spirit on me. And he said, “You have asked a hard thing; yet, if you see me as I am being taken from you, it shall be so for you, but if you do not see me, it shall not be so.”