From seatbelts to home surveillance systems to all types of insurance, we place a high priority on our security and safety. We work hard so we can have enough money in the bank for retirement. We want to be ready for any eventuality in any situation.

Good stewardship is one thing, but obsessive worrying about our future is another. Jesus did not call His disciples to a life of guaranteed security. Simon (Peter), Andrew, James, and John had everything to lose—not only their livelihoods as fishermen but also their freedom and perhaps even their lives if Rome saw the Messiah as a political threat. They also risked being cast out of the Jewish community if the Sanhedrin labeled Jesus as a false teacher. Nonetheless, “they left everything and followed him” (v. 11). This is the essence of discipleship (Luke 9:57–62).

As with Esther, the temptation was to take the safe route. The miraculous catch of fish helped to encourage their faith and to confirm Jesus’ identity as Messiah. “From now on,” He told them, “you will fish for people” (v. 10). This humorous image brings bait and lures to our modern minds, but Jesus was referring to fishing with nets. This takes persistence, hard work, and time, with no guaranteed results, as Simon admitted to Jesus (v. 5). So the miracle also showed the new disciples that the ministry of bringing people into God’s kingdom must ultimately be God’s work done with God’s power.

The disciples chose to leave behind what, in God’s view, was a lesser security—their jobs and personal safety—for a greater one—a place in His kingdom. This is why Paul, too, counted everything else as “loss” or “garbage” compared to knowing Christ (Phil. 3:7–9).

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