Luke 5:1-11
Find a place and time free of distractions for the next 7-10 minutes. Take a moment to settle into your surroundings and then begin to recognize your breath. As you breathe in, call on the name of Jesus and become aware of his presence with you. As you breathe out, open your mind and heart to receive whatever Jesus has for you today.
Read Luke 5:1-11 picturing the events as they unfold.
The teaching of Jesus is so remarkably different than anything the people have heard before that they clamor to be near him, and they crowd in so close that he has to move away to avoid being pushed into the sea by the eager masses. But though this is a large crowd, they are obviously awestruck and silent as they hang onto Jesus’ every word.
When Jesus walked the earth, there were limits on how many people could be near him and how many could hear him at one time. But now all who have surrendered their lives to him have direct access to Jesus by the presence of the Holy Spirit.
Take a moment to think about your desire to be near Jesus and the effect he has on you. Share any thoughts or feelings directly with him now.
Read Luke 5:1-11 again noticing Peter’s reaction to Jesus.
When it becomes apparent that something miraculous is happening, Peter’s knee-jerk reaction is to fall down in front of Jesus and confesses his sinfulness. In the presence of the divine, he immediately feels inadequate and guilty and he begins to grovel. But Jesus doesn’t even seem to notice Peter’s guilt-ridden disclosure, and his response to Peter is pure grace.
In the presence of Jesus there is abundance. He isn’t waiting for us to turn to him so he can pounce on us and punish us for our rebellion, rather Jesus waits for us to realize that he is already with us. HIs arms are open to welcome us, and he is eager to help us become who we were meant to be.
Stop to consider whether feelings of guilt or unworthiness have ever kept you from freely and fully receiving what Jesus has for you. Talk to him about this.
Picture Jesus standing in front of you with open arms welcoming you into his presence. Notice any emotions that arise and try to name them. Then just listen to Jesus for a while.
What might Jesus be saying to you today?
What will you do about that?
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The Everyday Jesus Follower’s Guide ebook can help you learn how to recognize God's voice, how to read and understand the Bible, how to develop deep spiritual friendships, and how to become the person you were meant to be. Use it alone, with a friend or in a small group.
