“Immediately” is the translation of the word that describes the actions of Simon, Andrew, James and John to Jesus’ request for them “to come follow me.”  

Immediately, they jumped out of their fishing boats, left their families and jobs and began to follow Jesus. They didn’t discuss this request with their families and friends or lawyers or doctors or religious leaders, they went immediately to follow Jesus. 

Immediately! With a very few exceptions, I don’t do anything immediately. I am a sure decision maker, but I generally discuss big changes in my life with my family and other trusted advisors.  

Not the chosen apostles, they left everything and followed an unknown and unproven man on a course of monumental change. They had no concrete evidence of what he had in mind for them. These men were not out looking for adventure. They were down-to-earth, hardy souls who worked at a difficult vocation to feed and care for their families. 

Later, Jesus told them about a new way to live and that God loved them unconditionally. However, he had not told them this before they left everything to follow him. But this was after they had immediately left their former lives to follow him. Wow! 

To me, this telling illustrates the incredible work of the Holy Spirit at this time. There must have been a powerful force moving through their souls at this time to send them off the boat immediately and into the shadow of Jesus. What amazing grace! 

I have the desire to answer Jesus immediately when presented with an occasion that requires representation of the Lord. Oh, you say that doesn’t happen in today’s world. It happens every day starting as soon as my feet hit the floor when I wake from sleep. 

The simple act of smiling and wishing someone a “Good Morning!” with a smile makes Jesus smile and call us a follower. He loves us unconditionally every day, all the time and forever. I will try to answer immediately and follow the apostles’ example. I pray that the Holy Spirit will continue to follow me wherever I go. 

Terri   (Based on Matt 4:18-22 NCV)