Beginnings involve change. Whether we begin a new job, a new relationship, or a new phase of life completely, change always plays a part. Spiritual beginnings are no different, and that is especially easy to see in the life of Peter.
Peter is probably the most well-known apostle, and we often remember his zeal and bold faith. He was introduced to Jesus by his brother Andrew and immediately, things in his life began to change.
Jesus first changed his name. Before meeting Jesus, he was “Simon, the son of John…” (John 1:42), but Jesus changed his name to Peter, marking the beginning of something new.
Jesus then changed his occupation. Shortly after his name change, Peter and his brother Andrew were casting a net into the Sea of Galilee; they were fishermen. Jesus called them and said, “Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men” (Matthew 4:18-19). The brothers “left the boat and their father, and followed Him” (Matthew 4:22).
Jesus changed his eternity. In Matthew 16, Jesus asked his disciples, “But who do you say that I am?” (Matthew 16:15). Peter answered, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God” (Matthew 16:16). His faith, trust, and obedience to Jesus changed Peter forever.
Like Peter, beginning a spiritual relationship with Jesus requires us to make changes in our lives. We may need to change our name (or who we are to others). We may need to change our occupation (our plans, habits, and daily activities). Change is always going to be necessary –sometimes subtle and sometimes dramatic – but can result in our eternity in heaven.
Matt Langfield