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In social media we can see these different terms – Subscribe in YouTube, Like in Facebook page and Follow in Twitter and Instagram. They all convey the same meaning – that you like the content and would like to be notified if there is another post.

In the Gospels, Jesus used the phrase “Follow me.” Jesus used this in many instances. What does it mean for us if we answer the invitation of Jesus to follow Him?

First, when we say yes to the “Follow me” of Jesus, it means that we accept His invitation to become “fishers” of people.

The first instance that Jesus said “Follow me” was the time that He called Simon and Andrew who were fishing as recorded in Matthew 4:18. Jesus also said this to Matthew in Mark 2:14 and Luke 5:27.

What is interesting here is the response of these people. The verse says, “At once they left their nets and followed him.” The other verse also says, “and Levi got up, left everything and followed him.”

So, what this means for us is to have that full commitment in following Jesus. We must leave everything, and follow His commands. We have to let go of things that are not according His will.

Second, when we say yes to the “Follow me” of Jesus, it means that we accept to deny ourselves and take up the cross.

Matthew 16:24 says, “Then Jesus said to his disciples, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.”

Taking up the cross and denying ourselves is a daily struggle. This is like what happened to one person who wanted to be a disciple of Jesus.

In Mark 10:22 we can see that person had a sad face because he cannot let go of his possessions. He cannot accept that his possessions will now be turned over for God’s purpose. This tells us that not all would accept the invitation of Jesus. Not everyone is ready to surrender their lives.

John 10:27 reminds us that we need to follow the voice of Jesus, our Shepherd. We must forsake the other voices that will try to steer us away from God.

Let us make a commitment to follow Jesus Christ!

Sincerely,