September 2002

“Are You Going Fishing?”

"I've got one!" was the cry from the other side of the pontoon. They just had a fantastic strike. The fight of wills was on, the fish's against the fisherman's. This was an awesome fish. You could tell it was a great fish because the pole bent almost to its breaking point and the fish was dancing across the water. What a great catch!

It is always a great time to be with the family and in the outdoors even if the fish aren't biting. Fishing is one of those sports that is affected by your participation, persistence and biting fish. Ah yes, biting fish, now there is a challenge.

Biting fish are affected by at least two factors. Their appetite and the bait you are using. You can serve up the most wonderful worms or the most luscious leeches, but if they are not hungry they just admire your taste in bait. And if you have just bought the best lure known to the universe and the fish are hankering for a cold wet juicy worm ( yuk) you might as well take a nice nap or read a book.

Yes, fishing can be a challenge. Even Jesus thought so. Do you remember that Jesus used the fishing scene to call a few fishermen to follow him. In Matthew 4:19 he said, " Come follow me and I will make you fishers of men."

It may seem strange to you and not all that flattering to be thought of as a fish, (although you can't beat the look of a good 15 inch small mouth bass leaping out of the water), but the analogy works well. As disciples of Christ, we are called to be fishers of men and in our everyday walk we are to be "fishing" for people.

We are spreading, through our words and actions, the saving story and love of Jesus Christ. The effectiveness of that "fishing" is also affected by many factors. As we begin the fall ministry season, God has gifted our church with the ability to reach out in many ways to meet needs and tell the story of Jesus Christ. Each person's response to the story is affected by the way the good news of Jesus is presented and the hunger in their hearts.

If you take a look at the fall ministry schedule ,you will see a variety of opportunities for children , youth and adults to hear the story of Jesus and his love. The way to tell the story may be different but it is the same story. Whether it's our TNT children's program, Sunday School, Adult Bible studies or W.O.W for our youth, there is an opportunity to hear the story.

There are also opportunities to get involved in prayer. Prayer empowers fishermen but even more importantly, prayer can bring on hunger pangs in a person's life. People will not respond unless they understand their need for a Savior.

Please pray in earnest for many to get hungry and accept Christ as Savior and Lord.

It is my hope that all fishermen will hear the call of Christ, find your place in the boat, and share Christ's love and his life giving story. There is a place for you to use your gifts and interests to make a difference.

We are ready to cast off . Let's go Fishing !

Pastor Craig