Dear friends,
This past Saturday the Lake Ericson annual fishing derby was held. There were a fair number of participants and the weather was favorable. This is a catch and release derby. A photo of the fish lying next to a yardstick was evidence of the angler’s catch and the fish was released back into the lake.
This brought to my mind the story of Jesus calling His disciples. He said He would make them fishers of men. “Come follow me, Jesus said, “and I will make you fishers of men” (Matthew 4:19). This would not be catch-and-release. They were not out to catch the biggest fish. There would be no one too small or too large. No one too young or too old. They were to spread the Gospel, to tell everyone about Jesus Christ, the Savior.
Regardless of size or age, all who respond to the Gospel are keepers and Jesus keeps them forever. “Once again, the kingdom of heaven is like a net that was let down into the lake and caught all kinds of fish” (Matthew 13:47).
When caught by the Savior, none are released. No photo or measuring device is required. The proof is in obedience to His word, and He will not throw any back for any reason. These are His words: “My sheep listen to my voice; I know them and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish, no one can snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my hand. I and the Father are one” (John 10:27-30).
As His disciples, we are to present the gospel in the context of a fishing lure or a net, and we show those who respond that Jesus accepts them only on the basis of faith, not on worthiness, as no one is worthy. Jesus provides our worth.
“As the Scripture says, “anyone who trusts in Him will never be put to shame. For there is no difference between Jew and Gentile—the same Lord is Lord of all and richly blesses all who call on Him, for “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved” (Romans 10:11-13).
Gone fishin’,
Pastor Jerry
sandhillspastor 