Digging Deeper – The Call to Leave the Shore
18 One day as Jesus was walking along the shore of the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers—Simon, also called Peter, and Andrew—throwing a net into the water, for they fished for a living. 19 Jesus called out to them, “Come, follow me, and I will show you how to fish for people!” 20 And they left their nets at once and followed him.
Matthew 4:18-20 (NLT)
THE CALL TO LEAVE THE SHORE
Picture a small sailboat tied to a dock. The boat is sturdy and safe, anchored in the harbor. But boats weren’t made to sit idle—they’re meant to explore open waters, braving winds and waves. Yet, cutting the rope to leave the dock feels risky. What if the storms are too strong? What if the boat capsizes?
Simon Peter and Andrew faced a similar choice when Jesus called them. They were fishermen, anchored in their daily routines and the security of their trade. Their nets symbolized their livelihood and identity. But when Jesus said, “Come, follow me,” they didn’t hesitate. They cut the ropes, left their nets, and stepped into the unknown with Him. Jesus wasn’t just calling them away from something—He was calling them toward something greater: a life of eternal significance. He promised to transform their skills and experiences, making them “fishers of people.” It wasn’t about abandoning who they were but repurposing their lives for His kingdom.
Like the boat tied to the dock, we often cling to what feels safe—our “nets.” These could be jobs, relationships, habits, or even fears that keep us anchored. But Jesus calls us to trust Him, to let go of the familiar, and to follow Him into the open waters of faith. Leaving the shore isn’t easy. The winds of uncertainty and waves of doubt can feel overwhelming. But just as Simon and Andrew discovered, Jesus is trustworthy. He doesn’t promise calm seas, but He does promise to be with us and to lead us to a life of purpose and fulfillment.
Take a moment to ask yourself: What is your “net”? What are you holding onto that might be keeping you from fully following Jesus? He’s calling you to leave the dock, to trust Him, and to step into His plans for your life. When Simon and Andrew let go of their nets, they stepped into a story far greater than they could have imagined—a story that is still impacting the world today. The same invitation is extended to you. Will you trust Him, leave your nets behind, and follow? The open waters await.
Steve Roach serves as the Pastor of Spiritual Maturity at NorthStar Church. He and his wife, Amy, live in Acworth and have three girls, Olivia, Sydney, and Hayley and one son, Colton. He enjoys watching sports and spending time with his family.
