Please note Sermon Recording will resume in February 2012

MAKE A DIFFERENCE

Many of us bring to this story about the disciples being called to follow Jesus a number of misunderstandings, which may stop us from hearing clearly Jesus’ call for us to follow him today.

We often hear that Simon, Andrew, James and John were poor young fishermen who immediately dropped everything to become Jesus’ assistant preachers, teacher and healers. Well, to start with, they weren’t poor – they were businessmen whose fishing licences could be bought and sold in Rome, two thousand kilometres away. They weren’t young – we know Simon had a home and a mother-in-law. This is one reason why Jesus’ call amazed them - the disciples a rabbi or teacher called were usually no older than 13. They were people in the midst of a busy life who are confronted by this Jesus, are fascinated by him and his teaching and want to know more.

When we read Jesus’ invitation to Follow me – our minds are full of everything that might mean today. Back then it might have been as simple as an invitation to come for a walk along the beach with me. They gladly put down their nets for that opportunity! Only later as one thing led to another did it gradually unfold what following Jesus might mean. It is the same with us. Jesus invites us to spend some time with him, to listen to him, to walk with him, but I should warn you – there is no knowing where that might lead!

The second part of his call to the fishermen was that he would  make them fish for people. Instead of working just to earn a living, they could make a difference in this world – make a difference by helping people. Isn’t that what each one of us wants deep down – to make a difference by helping people?

Cornish College, which I am working to help set up, has as its motto Make a Difference. Ormond College, where I also serve on the Council, has as one of its objects to develop its members so that they will make a disproportionate difference in the world.

Jesus’ call is still to each of us – to walk with him, that we might join him in making a difference in the world.

ROBERT JOHNSON