Day 5: Jesus Calls His First Disciples
Embracing the Call to Follow Him
Scripture Reading: John 1:35-51
"Jesus looked around and saw them following. 'What do you want?' he asked them. They replied, 'Rabbi' (which means “Teacher”), 'where are you staying?' 'Come and see,' he said. It was about four o’clock in the afternoon when they went with him to the place where he was staying, and they remained with him the rest of the day." (John 1:38-39, NLT)
Reflection: The Invitation to “Come and See”
In this passage, Jesus begins calling His first disciples. His invitation is simple yet profound: “Come and see.” These words are not just a command but an invitation into relationship, discovery, and transformation. Andrew and John, the first disciples, respond immediately, leaving behind their previous lives to follow the One they recognized as the Messiah.
Jesus’ invitation to His disciples is the same invitation He extends to each of us today. He calls us to follow Him, to seek Him where He is, and to abide with Him. Just as the disciples experienced transformation by walking with Jesus, we, too, are changed when we respond to His call with open hearts and willing spirits.
Personal Reflection:
When I think about the disciples leaving everything to follow Jesus, I’m reminded of how hard it can be to leave the familiar behind. There have been moments in my life when I felt Jesus calling me to step out in faith, whether it was serving in a new way at church or sharing my faith with someone who was struggling. Each time, I’ve found that the more I say “yes” to Jesus, the more my heart is transformed. His invitation to “come and see” is one that leads to joy, purpose, and deeper connection with Him.
Application: Following Jesus in Everyday Life
The story of Jesus calling His first disciples challenges us to consider how we respond to His invitation. Are we willing to leave behind what holds us back and embrace a life of discipleship? Here are practical steps to live out this call:
Spend Time with Jesus: The disciples spent time with Jesus, learning from Him and growing in faith. Set aside intentional time each day to be with Jesus through prayer, Scripture, and silence.
Answer the Call: Just as Andrew invited Simon Peter to meet Jesus, we are called to share our faith with others. Who in your life needs to hear about Jesus? Pray for the courage to invite them to “come and see.”
Trust His Plan: Following Jesus often requires stepping into the unknown. Trust that He will guide you, just as He guided the disciples, and take the next step in faith.
Action Step:
Take time today to reflect on how Jesus is calling you to follow Him. Is there an area of your life where you need to take a step of faith? Write down one specific way you can respond to His call, and pray for the courage to follow through.
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You for calling me to follow You. Help me to respond to Your invitation with faith and trust, leaving behind anything that holds me back. Teach me to walk with You each day, to learn from You, and to invite others into a relationship with You. May my life reflect Your love and grace. Amen.