The Call of Peter
March 16, 2025
Peter meets a person who demonstrates the ability to make a lot of money really fast, but he is shocked most deeply not by the miraculous lottery win but by the fact that he is suddenly faced with a person who has made a real choice between God and money. Stunned, Peter realizes the inadequacy of his own values and priorities. Finding himself face to face with this person who exposes and challenges his priorities on the deepest level, Peter is attracted, awed, and challenged to make a choice.
READ
Luke 5:1-11
Then Jesus said to Simon, “Do not be afraid; from now on you will be a fisher of people.” When they had brought their boats to shore, they left everything and followed him.
REFLECT
1. What does making a real choice between God and money look like in your life? What do your actions and behaviors say about your values and priorities?
2. When faced with someone who gently exposes and challenges your own values and priorities or those of your family or church as inadequate, what is your response?
3. What’s the cost of following Christ? Have you lost anything in your pursuit of Jesus or has it been a pretty smooth ride?
RESPOND
1. Jesus enters into the world of people rather than expecting them to step out of their world to come to Jesus. Look for Jesus entering your world.
2. American Christianity preaches a gospel that thrives on works (going to church, being a good person, being baptized) and many people are missing the intimate and personal relationship with Jesus. Notice and observe the faith you live and share.
3. In order to follow Jesus we must voluntarily relinquish control over every aspect of our lives. That includes our possessions, our comfort, our careers, our family, our position, our successes, and our failures. Choose God's deep work in your life over superficial religion.