The apostle Peter is one of the most recognized figures in western civilization. His writings and actions have been analyzed and preached about. Some of the greatest works of art and architecture in western history feature his likeness or name. Oddly enough, his journey began with humble origins. He was an uneducated fisherman in one of the most backwater places in the world. When he stood trial before the Jewish leadership, they made fun of his message because he was an uneducated rube. What made him stand out in history, rather than living in obscurity, was a decision to jump when God called him. Jesus, a poor preacher without the proper credentials, invited him to follow and learn. Peter jumped, abandoned his business, and followed Jesus. Later, he took the risk of stepping out of the boat to walk on water when Jesus called him. Time and again, Peter faced difficult decisions and jumped. In the end, choosing to follow God’s calling over and over again is what drew Peter from obscurity to becoming renowned. Rather than take the familiar road, he heard God’s call and responded. Mind you, it did not result in an easy or profitable life. It resulted in difficulty, poverty, and danger.
Peter is unique in a way because his opportunity was unique. Only a small number of folks in history met Jesus in the flesh during his earthly ministry. Peter stood at the crossroads of history. Most of us will not have a similar opportunity. However, God does call us to make the decision to follow Jesus on a daily basis. His teachings are applicable to every element of our lives. Talking to God about our lives, struggles, joys, and experiences is supposed to be a major part of our daily choice to follow Him. Choosing to pray and connect with God daily is a big part of what changes us into what God made us to be. Another choice God gives us daily is to stand in a community of believers. The New Testament repeatedly directs believers to gather together in fellowship. We are given the choice of whether or not to grow by spending time with other believers. These choices aren’t as monumental as deciding to step out of a boat and walk on water and they won’t likely result in having monuments built in our name. However, the little choices God gives us to follow Jesus eventually add up. They change us into people who are more like Him, eventually making an impact on the lives of those around us. It isn’t instant and it isn’t as easy as doing nothing, but it is worth it. Our lives are changed bit by bit through the choices we make to follow Jesus in the small things.
