Jesus Calls His First Disciples

By the sparkling Sea of Galilee, a soft wind brushed the water. Jesus walked along the seaside with a gentle smile, sharing the good news of the Kingdom. Two strong fishermen brothers, Peter and Andrew, were casting their net into the sea. Jesus called out, "Come, follow Me! I will make you fishers of men!" They looked at each other, dropped their net at once, and followed Jesus. Farther on, Jesus saw James and John sitting in a boat with their father Zebedee, mending nets. Jesus called again, "Follow Me too!" They leaped from the boat and waved goodbye to their father. From that day Jesus had four new friends. Together they walked over green hills, entered the synagogue, and listened to Jesus tell of God's love. Jesus laid His hands on the sick and they were healed. People came from all directions to hear Him. At sunset, Jesus and His disciples stood on a hill gazing at the sea — brave fishermen who had put down their nets, answered God's call, and begun a great journey of fishing for people.