Our scripture this week is Matthew 4:12-23.
Going on from there, he saw two other brothers, James son of Zebedee and his brother John. They were in a boat with their father Zebedee, preparing their nets. Jesus called them, and immediately they left the boat and their father and followed him.
Matthew 4:21-22
Jesus continues calling a group of men that will be the closest to him and the ones He teaches most. Later, they will be the ones entrusted to carry on His ministry here on earth. Jesus showed us that our relationship with God is essential, but also that being connected to our brothers and sisters in Him is needed.
18th century preacher John Wesley wrote “The Gospel of Christ knows no religion but social; no holiness, but social holiness.” We were all made for God and each other. Jesus spent time alone in prayer with God, but He was with His followers more often, knowing that they all needed each other’s presence.
We need to follow His example for time alone and time with others. The balance may be different for each person depending on the gifts you have been given and the call God places on your life, but we all need to find the peace He gives when we are connected to Him and each other. We are separate beings but we are not meant to be separated.
Loving Lord, in Your creating wisdom You made all things to work together, including humans. Show us how we should be connected to You and each other every day. Amen.