Gone Fishin’ (Part 2)

Bible Reading: Matthew 5:14-16

I’m going to do it, Santiago decided. I want to be a fisher of people and help bring my friends to Jesus. And I’m going to start with Pete. So whenever Santiago saw Pete, he would mention a Bible verse he’d learned, or he’d invite Pete to go to church with him. Pete always refused and often acted annoyed when Santiago quoted a verse or tried to tell him about Jesus.

“I give up, Dad,” Santiago said one evening. “Pete never wants to come to church, and he’s getting sick of me asking all the time. I don’t think he likes it when I share Bible verses either. I’m gonna quit!”

“What was one of the first things you taught Pete about fishing?” asked Dad.

Santiago thought about it. “Not to keep popping his line out of the water.”

Dad nodded. “Patience is necessary, both when you fish for fish and when you fish for people. You need to keep at it and not give up.” Dad looked thoughtful. “Maybe you should also consider how you’re casting out.”

“What do you mean?” asked Santiago.

“Well, you don’t have to recite verses or constantly ask Pete to go to church with you,” said Dad. “Why don’t you focus on strengthening your friendship? Keep spending time together and having fun.”

“Shouldn’t I ever talk about God?” Santiago asked.

“Sure, but maybe not every time you see Pete,” said Dad. “Pray for him, and when he shows a little interest, tell him why Jesus is so important to you and what you enjoy about church. Maybe he’ll decide to come sometime. But don’t press him, and remember—you must be patient.”

Over the next few weeks, Santiago did what his dad suggested. Finally, he felt the nibble he’d been waiting for.

“Dad!” Santiago shouted as he burst into the house. “Guess what happened today!”

“Well, I know you planned to go fishing this afternoon, so I’d say you caught a fish,” said Dad.

“Yeah—and his name is Pete!” Santiago beamed. “I got a nibble, at least. Pete said he wanted to go to church on Wednesday night with me. You were right, Dad—a fisher needs to be patient if he really wants to bring someone to Jesus.” • Lynn Hansen

How About You?

Do you give up if you try to tell someone about Jesus and they don’t seem interested? Check your cast—are you being a genuine friend? Are you praying for them? When the time is right, share what Jesus has done for you (“Have You Heard the Good News?” on page 102 can help). It may take a long, long time before someone wants to learn more about Jesus, but the salvation of a friend is worth waiting for! Be patient and don’t give up.

Today’s Key Verse:
2 Timothy 4:2 Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction. (NIV)

Today’s Key Thought:

Fish with patience