By Ron Harmon, Presiding Bishop

As he walked by the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea—or they were fishermen. And he said to them, “Follow me, and I will make you fish for people.” Immediately they left their nets and followed him. As he went from there, he saw two other brothers, James son of Zebedee and his brother John, in the boat with their father Zebedee, mending their nets, and he called them. Immediately they left the boat and their father, and followed him.

Upon hearing of John the Baptist’s arrest, Jesus withdraws to Galilee, a region known for its diversity and mixture of cultures. Here, amid the uncertainty of his time, Jesus begins his mission, proclaiming, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near” (Matthew 4:17). His message is clear: God’s alternative vision is within reach, urging us to think and act as though the kingdom were already here.

As Jesus walks by the Sea of Galilee, he calls Simon Peter and Andrew, saying, “Follow me, and I will make you fish for people” (Matthew 4:19). This invitation is not merely to follow but to transform their everyday labor into a mission of greater purpose. They immediately leave their nets, their primary source of livelihood, demonstrating a profound act of trust and generosity of spirit.

In a world often focused on scarcity, this passage encourages whole life response to a loving and generous God. By leaving their nets, Simon Peter and Andrew embody a radical generosity—one that transcends material possessions and embraces a spirit of abundance rooted in faith. This act challenges us to cultivate a similar spirit, recognizing that generosity emerges as we open our hearts to see things not as they are but as they could be in Christ.

Furthermore, as Jesus gathers his disciples, including James and John, he is modeling our call to embrace the future together. Bringing our lives fully to Christ’s mission means fostering a spirit of interdependence that builds and sustains communities of justice and peace. The call is to create networks of support and generous compassion, where the well-being of one is intertwined with the well-being of all.

We say yes to the call by trusting in the abundance of God’s kingdom being revealed even now and seeking to build communities that reflect Christ’s inclusive and transformative love for all.

Prayer Phrase

“I am the light of the world” (John 8:12).

Spiritual Practice

Light

Close your eyes and become centered with your breath. As you breathe gently in and out, reflect on the statement, “The light of God is in all things.” The light has a bright, soft beauty and radiates God’s healing love. The light of God reaches you and permeates you with a deep sense of peace. Rest in the light as it surrounds and fills you. Thank God that you live in God’s light, and it lives in you.

Today’s Prayer for Peace

Engage in a daily practice of praying for peace in our world. Click here to read today’s prayer and be part of this practice of peace.