The Story for the
Third Sunday after Epiphany
January 24, 2021
prepared by the Rev’d Rhonda Waters
Mark 1:14-20
Now after John was arrested, Jesus came to Galilee, proclaiming the good news of God, and saying, “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God has come near; repent, and believe in the good news.”
As Jesus passed along the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and his brother Andrew casting a net into the sea – for they were fishermen. And Jesus said to them, “Follow me and I will make you fish for people.” And immediately they left their nets and followed him.
As he went a little farther, he saw James son of Zebedee and his brother John, who were in their boat mending the nets. Immediately he called them; and they left their father Zebedee in the boat with the hired men, and followed him.
Something to Do
And immediately they left their nets and followed him
You don’t necessarily have to leave your nets to follow Jesus – after all, you may well have followed Jesus to your particular nets. Sometimes, though, we can lose sight of the One we follow in the midst of the day-to-day. This week, as you go through your routine, ask Jesus to make you mindful that each step is intended for his service.
Begin like this:
Jesus, teacher and Saviour, be in my waking and fill my preparations for the day with thoughts of you.
Proclaiming the Good News
It might seem like there’s not a lot of good news around these days but the good news is still around – you just might have to look a little harder.
Look for the good news. Every day, make a point of noticing and celebrating good news, big or small. Write it down or tell a friend or just hold it close to your heart.
Something to Wonder
Following the Leader
What makes a good leader? Whose leadership do you admire? What kind of leader are you most comfortable following?
Does your description fit with how you might describe Jesus? In what ways yes and in what ways no?
Called by Jesus
Think back on your life and the decisions you have made. When have your decisions been shaped by a sense of Jesus’ call? What did that feel like? Is there a pattern or familiar shape to that sense of Jesus’ call? How do you attune yourself to it?
Something to Learn
Called to Follow
The Theology of Work Project maintains that God calls us all to work, whether that work is paid or unpaid. (Fortunately, they also maintain that work is only one aspect of our lives.). While I do not necessarily endorse everything on their website, it is a valuable source of reflection on how work can be – and needs to be – an expression of our Christian faith.
Two articles relevant to this week’s story:
The Calling of the First Disciples (Mark 1:16-20)
Calling & Vocation (Overview)
Something to Pray
Holy God, we do not always understand your word or your ways.
Give us wisdom and imagination and courage as we learn and grow.
The story this week has made me wonder about…
(what questions are still on your heart?)
Receive my questions and help me hear your answers.
The story this week has filled me with…
(how are you feeling?)
Accept my praise, heal my hurt, ease my worry.
The story this week has reminded me of…
(are there situations or people you are thinking of?)
Be with all who are in need of you.
In Jesus’ name, we pray.
Amen.