7 Joyful Truths About Following JesusSample

Simon Peter was a fisherman. Here his boat is sinking with fish—the catch of his life. It’s miraculous in every way. Suddenly Peter knows why: Jesus did it. His joy at the stupendous haul suddenly turned to fear as he caught a glimpse of who Jesus might be—and then horror at his own unworthiness to receive such attention and bounty. “Go away! I am a sinful man!” he cried. ### Why did Jesus immediately call Peter here, now after his admission of sin? ### Shouldn’t that have disqualified him from becoming a follower of Jesus? No. Those terrifying words of confession are exactly what qualified him to be called. It’s the same for us. How many times am I slain with shame when I’m given gifts and responsibilities I do not deserve? How many hours have I spent lamenting my own deficiencies and disbelieving God’s love? Yet the very recognition of our sin and our need for Jesus is exactly what qualifies us to serve him. ## Yes, of course, we’re sinners. Of course, we’re unworthy. Those are the only kind of people Jesus calls and saves. # Prayer Jesus, when I recognize the truth of who I am, I echo Peter’s words of shame and unworthiness: I am a sinner. Oh, how I need a Savior! And as I speak these words of confession to you, I know you respond with overflowing grace. You tell me you’ve chosen me just as I am. My shame is gone. Now I am filled with peace and gratitude. Thank you, Lord for this greatest of all gifts! Amen.