Follow Me – Matthew 4:18-22 Reflection
Jesus continues to call out “Follow me” to each of us. I am sure you know someone whose life radically changed because they heard and followed Christ. It is often difficult for someone to describe how they feel about the experience that led to their transformation. Their call can be so strong that they must give up a portion of their current life (or for some of their life) to serve God in some way beyond the ordinary. Most of us are not required to leave our job or family for the ministry we are called to follow Jesus for. Undoubtedly, others in your life and Jesus hope that His call to “follow me” yields your loving responses so others may see Him in you. Whatever your calling, with a thirst for Christian love, Jesus will give you what you need. If you follow His lead, you may be asked to lead humbly.
The Calling of Saint Peter and Saint Andrew by James Tissot (full-resolution painting)
More details are available on the Brooklyn Museum website.
Additional Ordinary Time Reflections
Matthew 4:18-22 – Scripture*
Jesus Calls the First Disciples
18 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—for they were fishermen. 19 And he said to them, “Follow me, and I will make you fish for people.” 20 Immediately they left their nets and followed him. 21 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. 22 Immediately they left the boat and their father, and followed him.
Additional Thoughts
Thank you for meditating on this Gospel reading and considering this Lectio Divina reflection on Matthew 4:18-22 – Jesus Thirst for your Love.
Would you like to contribute related thoughts to these Lectio reflections on the Gospel readings? Since Lectio is not the only contemplative payer style, others might appreciate these types of expressions in this ministry. Do you see God’s grandeur everywhere and unconditionally enjoy sharing the love of Christ that you have inside? Are you willing to be anonymous in what you would share? If so, email me.
Prayer for young families:
Lord, let the young families of our communities experience your joy, peace, comfort, and love despite worldly distractions.
Attributions
*This site has permission to use the New Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition (NRSVCE) Bible Matthew 4 passage.
The Immersive Prayer website follows the guidelines for image web use at the Brooklyn Museum and the Jewish Museum websites.
Primary Lectio Divina word or phrase: Follow Me
Page and discussion group on these Lectio Divina daily Gospel Readings.
Discussion group on St. John of the Cross.