Passing alongside the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and Andrew the brother of Simon casting a net into the sea, for they were fishermen. And Jesus said to them, “Follow me, and I will make you become fishers of men.” And immediately they left their nets and followed him.

Mark 1:16-18

Peter is one of the most interesting characters found in Biblical history. He was full of faith one minute and in the next moment he was reprimanded for speaking before he considered his words. Has anyone else experienced anything like that?

In the passage above we are introduced to Simon (Peter) as Jesus called him and his brother to follow. Peter was no religious leader. He built a life and carried on the family name in a worthwhile business, but based on his decision to follow Christ, it seems that Peter had longed for something more significant in life even if it meant change.

Jewish life had specific expectations for men in the culture, yet Peter was willing to risk it all when he left everything to follow Christ. His parents, in-laws, and his wife may have all questioned his decision.

We tend to be kind of casual about Peter’s decision to leave everything and follow Christ because we know the end of the story. We know all about Peter’s highs and lows – and his lowest moment when he denied Christ.

Peter had failed miserably, yet Christ restored him following the Resurrection. Maybe you feel like some of the opportunities of life have passed you by, but the most important challenge of life faces each of us each day. Jesus’ call to Peter and the other disciples still applies to al who will hear and respond.

“And he said to all, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will save it” (Matthew 16:23-24).