In this opening message of our Lenten journey, we reflect on Jesus’ call to the first disciples in Matthew 4:18–22: “Follow me.” What does it truly mean to follow Jesus—not just in words, but in the way we live our lives? As Jesus calls ordinary fishermen to leave their nets behind, we are invited to consider the cost, the transformation, and the purpose of discipleship.

This sermon challenges common assumptions that following Jesus leads to comfort, success, or a problem-free life. Instead, it explores discipleship as a journey of surrender, trust, and becoming—where Jesus reshapes our identity and calls us into God’s mission. Drawing on the historical and spiritual context of the disciples’ response, we see that their decision was not impulsive but rooted in expectation, encounter, and readiness for God’s work.

As we begin Lent, thi ...