And immediately they left their nets and followed him.

Mark 1:18

Many of the Gospel readings selected for the lectionary series for this church year come from the Book of Mark. Mark seems to be a man of urgency. He uses the word “immediately” (from the Greek eutheos) no less than forty times in his book. He reports that this is the way Jesus operated. No tardiness. No delay. Just be about his “Father’s business.”

What an example for us! The Lord has given us many years of life. How many more? We simply do not know. We need to get going. We need to lift, love, and learn as we live in the grace of Christ. No holding back, no “wait a minute,” no reluctance. But only a wondrous and blessed “immediacy” about fulfilling his mission. With joy and wonder overflowing, we can share his good news — straight away!

Don Luepke
Fremont, IN

Lord, put my life and witness in high gear and get me going. Amen.

Reflect: Sing “I love to Tell the Story.” Then immediately go and do so.

Read: Mark 1:21-45 and Mark 16:15-18