Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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Unlikely People
Mark 1:16-20
They were fishermen. Then Jesus said to them, "Follow Me, and I will make you become fishers of men." (Mark 1:16-17)
Not only was the Son of God born in an unlikely location and of unlikely parents, He chose His first followers at an unlikely place. He didn’t search the religious schools for the most learned scholars. He didn’t look among the ranks of brilliant military leaders. He stayed away from skilled statesmen and famous orators. Rather, Jesus went to the shores of Galilee and called out four common fishermen—Peter and Andrew, James and John.
“Bad choice,” some might say. “Uneducated. Tough characters. What would they know about starting a worldwide movement? They couldn’t work a crowd if they had to.”
Now, on behalf of fishermen everywhere, let me say that they have many positive traits. They must be resourceful, courageous, and patient. They must plan carefully and take care of their equipment. Such qualities are no doubt helpful in carrying out the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20), but I don’t think that’s why Jesus chose those men. I believe He wanted to demonstrate how God can transform ordinary people into “fishers of men” (Mark 1:16-17).
God’s work is often done by unlikely people from unlikely places—people like you and me. To be successful, we must follow the One who can make us fishers of men.
PRAYER
Dear Lord, help me to be a witness for you. Amen.
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
God uses ordinary people to do extraordinary work.

Christian Education Forum, Diocese of NAE of the Mar Thoma Church

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