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January 18, 2017

No Need to Fear

Alina Kanaski   |   Read Matthew 4:18-22

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Lectionary Week
January 16–22, 2017
Scripture Overview

The image of light figures in three of the texts. Light not only illumines but brings a changed situation. The psalmist’s confession links light with salvation. The Gospel lesson expresses deliverance in terms of the nearness of God’s reign, which overcomes diseases and distortions. Light permits well-being. Light is the mode of God’s presence.

Questions and Suggestions for Reflection

• Read Isaiah 9:1-4. When has God called you out of the darkness of an old habit, a familiar circumstance, into the light of new opportunity for ministry?
• Read Psalm 27:1, 4-9. Do you feel more comfortable talking with God about your joys or your pains? Is there need for more openness in either?
• Read 1 Corinthians 1:10-18. In your faith community, when have members found themselves at odds over priorities of no eternal value?
• Read Matthew 4:12-23. Put yourself into the story. What do you hear, see, feel, or smell? How have you answered the call of Jesus?

Respond by posting a prayer .

Matthew 4:18-22

18 As Jesus walked alongside the Galilee Sea, he saw two brothers, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew, throwing fishing nets into the sea, because they were fishermen. 19 “Come, follow me,” he said, “and I’ll show you how to fish for people.” 20 Right away, they left their nets and followed him. 21 Continuing on, he saw another set of brothers, James the son of Zebedee and his brother John. They were in a boat with Zebedee their father repairing their nets. Jesus called them and 22 immediately they left the boat and their father and followed him.

Unless otherwise indicated, scripture quotations are from the Common English Bible. Copyright © 2011 Common English Bible. Used by permission.

They leave everything. That’s what strikes me. Peter and
Andrew, James and John leave behind everything they’ve
ever known—the boats and nets they employ to make a living,
their families. They leave all behind at the words of Jesus:
“Follow me.” They seemingly give no thought, no deliberation,
no time...

Lord, give us the courage to fight our fear and listen to your voice today. Amen.


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