However, I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus Christ has given me – the task of testifying to the good news of God’s grace. Acts 20:24
When Paul encountered Jesus Christ on the road to Damascus, his life, passion, vocation, and ambition changed completely. This generally is the experience of everyone who has had an encounter with the Lord, dramatic or salient. Jesus declared that if anyone will follow Him, he must deny himself, take up his cross and follow him (Luke 9:23).
Paul responded: “I consider everything a loss …” (Phi 3:8) “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, … (Gal. 2:20). Next Jesus said: Come, follow me and I will make you fishers of men.” Matt. 4:19. Paul understood this to be a lifelong marathon. “I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest … I myself should be disqualified.” (1Cor. 9:27). A follower of Jesus Christ is equipped to be a fisher of men.
Paul fished mainly in foreign ‘waters‘ where the Lord sent him. Persecution, lack of support, health, etc. could not stop him. He even refused to marry to be more effective in his ministry. His goal was to finish his race strong and complete the assignment God gave him.
We too have been sent to fish in our “Jerusalems, Judeas, Samarias and to the ends of the earth.” The platforms God has given us include fishing in government offices, schools, private companies, church, military, or police, etc. Where are you fishing for your Lord?
Author: Rev. Sunday Bwanhot
Rev. Sunday Bwanhot is EMS/SIM Missionary. He serves as Team leader of SIM Culture Connexions; Pastors of ECWA Chicago and ECWA USA DCC Chairman.>
