Sometimes the most simple call can be the most life-changing one. It all depends how we respond to the call. Now, the call I'm talking about isn't a telephone call. And it isn't a card game type of call for a show of hands. And it's definitely not a call to halt something like when a baseball game is called because of rain.
It's certainly not the type of calls someone gives in leading a square dance, nor a type of call as in a summons for jury duty. It's not a calling it quits, calling one's bluff, calling it a day, calling the shots, or calling a spade a spade.
The call I'm talking about is a very, very simple call in the form of a heart-felt request. It's not a demand, but a request that requires a decision on your part that can lead to a very positive outcome. An example would be a call from a company offering you a great job position. Or a call or request persuading you to attend a dear friend's wedding. It requires a decision.
The most simple but powerful, life-changing call, however, is the one Jesus made. And it's only 2 words! "Follow me". He used it many times, and many made the decision to follow Him. For example, Matthew, then know as Levi, was called by Jesus and he quickly responded.
As he walked along, he saw Levi son of Alphaeus sitting at his tax collector’s booth. “Follow me and be my disciple,” Jesus said to him. So Levi got up and followed him. (Mark 2:14)
Peter (early on called Simon) and Andrew, fishermen, responded to the call.
One day as Jesus was walking along the shore of the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and his brother Andrew throwing a net into the water, for they fished for a living. Jesus called out to them, “Come, follow me, and I will show you how to fish for people!” And they left their nets at once and followed him. (Mark 1:16-18)
I love the example of the early followers. When they saw Jesus and heard His call, they dropped what they were doing and began to follow Him. It's as simple as that. And they followed Him for life. It wasn't just temporary, something to try out for a while. They made a heart-felt life decision, and their lives changed forever. Did they know everything about Jesus? No. Did they know what their life would be like? No. Did they trust Jesus would lead them physically and spiritually? Yes!
Here's the deal. Jesus still calls us today. "Follow Me". Have you decided to follow? I'm not talking about simply claiming the title "Christian". I'm talking about being a "Christ-Follower". Big difference.
You don't need to know everything about Jesus before you decide to follow. You don't need to be living a perfect life. You don't need to be a Bible scholar. You don't even need to be worthy of being called! You don't need to be anything. You just need to make a decision. And respond to His call, "Follow Me". And start walking!
Jesus said, "I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life". Who wouldn't want to follow Him?
He said “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” I'll take it!
A decision to follow Him involves walking with Him, listening to Him, talking to Him, and learning from Him the rest of your life. And it results in an ever-growing, loving relationship with Him. The good news is that it leads to peace, joy, hope, promise, forgiveness, salvation, and eternal life!
How could anyone say no?
