Fishing or Schrolling? Third Sunday after the Epiphany

Fishing or Scrolling?

How much time do you spend on social media or other digital platforms? Do you find yourself mindlessly scrolling through feeds for extended periods, perhaps at the expense of spending time with family, friends, or co-workers. Maybe you’re missing some important time in prayer, reading the Bible, or engaging in meaningful conversations with loved ones? If the virtual world begins to consume a disproportionate amount of our time and attention, it may be an attachment that needs to be surrendered.

How many “real” relationships are we nurturing through social media? While staying connected with friends and family is valuable, do our online interactions sometimes replace or diminish our engagement with the real, tangible relationships in our lives? Are there pursuits or online communities that, while not inherently wrong, may be diverting our focus from the plan God has for our lives. Perhaps we are “missing the boat” (pun intended!) altogether when we consider today’s reading focused on Jesus’ calling those fishermen.

In addressing our potential distractions, it's not about demonizing technology or social media but recognizing when these tools become stumbling blocks to our spiritual journey. It may involve setting intentional boundaries, creating designated times for digital detox, or redirecting our focus toward activities that deepen our relationship with Christ and others.

By examining our use of technology through the lens of our commitment to Christ, we can identify areas where comfort and convenience may hinder our spiritual growth. Surrendering unhealthy attachments and reevaluating the impact of our digital interactions can be a practical way to ensure that our daily choices align with our pursuit of Christ.

In our scripture reading this week, we find ourselves in the early stages of Jesus' ministry, as recounted in the Gospel of Mark, chapter 1, verses 14 to 20. John the Baptist, the herald of the Messiah, has been arrested, setting the stage for Jesus to step into the spotlight and commence His public ministry in Galilee.

As we delve into these verses, we witness a profound moment – the calling of the first disciples by Jesus. It is a moment that holds timeless lessons for us as followers of Christ.

Proclamation of the Kingdom (Mark 1:14-15)

In the opening verses of this passage, Jesus proclaims the good news of God's Kingdom. His message is one of urgency and immediacy. "The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God has come near; repent, and believe in the good news." This proclamation echoes through the ages, calling us to respond with open hearts and receptive spirits.

Today, the urgency of Jesus' message resonates with us. The Kingdom of God is still near, and the call to repentance and belief is as relevant as ever. How can we, in our lives, actively participate in the unfolding of God's Kingdom? How can we embody the transformative power of the good news?

Prompt Response (Mark 1:16-18)

Simon and Andrew, upon hearing Jesus' call, immediately leave their nets to follow Him. Their response is characterized by immediate obedience and a willingness to abandon the familiar for the extraordinary adventure of following Christ. (I suppose they were quite fortunate not to be distracted by their electronic devices!!)

I invite you to reflect on your own response to Jesus' call. Are there areas in your life where immediate obedience is lacking? Are you willing to leave behind the safety of the familiar for the unpredictable, yet rewarding journey of discipleship?

Pursuit of the Called (Mark 1:19-20)

Continuing His mission, Jesus calls James and John. Much like Simon and Andrew, they too respond promptly, leaving their father and the hired men. This demonstrates the cost of discipleship – a willingness to abandon comfort and familiarity for the sake of following Christ more closely.

Consider the areas in your life where comfort may be hindering your commitment to Christ. Are there attachments that need to be surrendered? Are there relationships or pursuits that, while not inherently wrong, may be impeding your pursuit of Christ?

Still scrolling or is it time to fish?

In summary, we witness three essential elements in the call of the disciples: the Proclamation of the Kingdom, the Prompt Response, and the Pursuit of the Called. Jesus' call is not a passive invitation; it demands a response that involves both heart and action. It may involve us to put a pause (or at least restrictions) on our use of electronic devices. It may involve us interacting with those around us. It may involve spending more time in prayer and bible readings. We can continue mindlessly scrolling through social media. Or we can delve deeper, fish for something deeper, something more profound, something eternal.

I invite you to recommit yourselves to following the Fisher of Men. Let the urgency of the Kingdom of God resonate in our hearts, prompting us to respond promptly and pursue the call of Christ with unwavering dedication.

Call to Worship (based on Psalm 62:5-12)

Leader: "In God alone, our souls find rest; our hope comes from Him."

People: "He alone is our rock and our salvation, our fortress; we shall not be shaken."

Leader: "Pour out your hearts before Him, people of God, for God is our refuge."

People: "The power belongs to God, and steadfast love is His."

Leader: "In God, we find unfailing love and mighty strength for our journey."

People: "We trust in Him at all times, and pour out our hearts to Him, for God is our refuge."

Leader: "Might and love are yours, O Lord; you reward everyone according to their deeds."

People: "We come together to worship, to rest in God's grace, and to be strengthened by His love."

All: "Let us worship God, our rock, our salvation, and our hope."

Opening Prayer (based on 1 Corinthians 7:29-31)

Let us pray.

Heavenly Father, in this moment of worship and reflection, we come before You, mindful of the words of the Apostle Paul in 1 Corinthians. He reminds us that "the appointed time has grown short," and in these days, we are called to live with an eternal perspective.

Lord, as we navigate the complexities of our lives, help us to hold lightly the things of this world. Teach us to engage with the world as if we are not engrossed in it, for the present form of this world is passing away. May our hearts not be weighed down by anxieties or the pursuit of temporary pleasures, but instead, be lifted up in service and devotion to You.

In a world that often measures success by material accumulation and personal gain, grant us the wisdom to understand the impermanence of earthly things. Help us to use the time, resources, and opportunities You have given us for the furtherance of Your kingdom, knowing that our true treasure lies in heaven.

We pray for the ability to experience joy and gratitude in our daily lives, even as we hold these experiences lightly, understanding that they are but a glimpse of the greater joy found in You. May our relationships, work, and leisure be infused with a sense of Your presence and purpose.

Father, we also ask for Your guidance in discerning what is truly important. In a world filled with noise and competing demands, grant us clarity to focus on what is eternal. Help us to love deeply, act justly, and walk humbly with You.

As we gather here today, we commit this time to You. May our worship be pleasing in Your sight, and may our hearts and minds be open to the teaching of Your Word. Strengthen us, renew us, and prepare us to go out into the world as ambassadors of Your love and grace.

In the precious name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, we pray. Amen.