Jesus Calls His Friends

Come and see how Jesus walked beside a big, blue lake and found some friends. With just three gentle words, “Come, follow me,” He invited ordinary fishermen to help Him share God’s love.

One bright morning, Jesus took a walk beside a big, blue lake called the Sea of Galilee. The water sparkled in the sunshine, and little waves went lap, lap, lap against the shore. Jesus loved to be near the water, where the wind was soft and the sky was wide. He was looking for some special friends to help Him share God’s love. So He walked along the shore with a happy, hopeful heart.

Soon Jesus saw two brothers, Peter and Andrew, down by the edge of the water. They were fishermen, and they worked hard every day catching fish. Their strong hands threw their nets out wide, splash, across the blue lake. Jesus watched them with a warm and gentle smile. He knew that these two brothers were just right to be His helpers.

Jesus called out across the water in a kind, friendly voice. “Come, follow me,” He said softly. He told them He would teach them to gather people the way they gathered fish, so everyone could hear about God’s love. Peter and Andrew listened closely to every single word. Their hearts felt warm and glad, because Jesus wanted them.

Right away, Peter and Andrew set down their fishing nets. They did not wait, and they were not afraid. They left their nets behind and went with Jesus, side by side. They did not know all that would happen next, but they trusted Him completely. And Jesus was so glad to have His new friends walking close beside Him.

A little farther along the shore, Jesus saw two more brothers, James and John. They were mending their nets in a boat with their father, Zebedee. Jesus called to them too, and right away they came to follow Him. Now Jesus had four good friends to walk with and to help Him. And Jesus smiled, for God loves to invite ordinary people, just like you, to come and be His friends.

Thank You, God, for inviting me to be Your friend and Your helper. Thank You that You love ordinary people like me, and You always want me close to You.