When I heard Jesus tell me to drop my nets, I realized he was asking me to leave my desire for clarity and direction behind. I am called to walk alongside him in trust, even if I don’t know where we are going. After all, Jesus didn’t give the disciples any direction when he called them. He didn’t point out which way they were headed. He didn’t offer any clear insights or answers, not even a hint.
Jesus said nothing more than, “Come, follow me,” with the cryptic addition of, “and I will make you fish for people.” Jesus’ presence was answer enough. Jesus asked the disciples to trust him with that single piece of evidence.
Nets can offer us safety, but safety is not always the better way. What looks like safety can end up entangling us. What looks like security can keep us from the true freedom into which God invites us.
This message is excerpted from “Drop your nets.” by Michelle Derusha in the June 2020 Gather magazine. Today is the Fifth Sunday after Epiphany.
Copyright © 2025 Women of the ELCA. Inquiries for permission to reproduce should be directed to [email protected]. If you enjoy this resource, Donate Now.