I still vividly remember the journey of becoming a priest. As a teenager, applying to the seminary felt like trying to get into the most exclusive club—only with more paperwork and no party. There were workshops, psychological tests, preliminary interviews, letters of recommendation, and a medical fitness certificate. Since I belonged to the Syro-Malabar Rite but was joining a Latin Rite congregation, I needed a special permission letter from my bishop.
When I was finally accepted, it was only the beginning of a long formation—14 and a half years, to be exact! It involved undergrad studies, philosophy, theology, spiritual and pastoral formation, and mission work, all designed to prepare me for the priesthood. After successfully navigating it all, I was finally ordained.
Now, compare that to the disciples in today’s Gospel. Jesus calls Simon, Andrew, James, and John as they simply go about their daily routines—casting nets, mending them—and they immediately leave everything to follow Him. No interviews, no recommendation letters, no years of discernment. Just an instant, wholehearted “yes.”
Your Vocation to Follow Christ
This Gospel passage offers three key reflections on our own vocation as Christians:
Firstly, Jesus calls us in the ordinary moments of life. Simon and Andrew were fishermen, just doing their daily work when Jesus showed up. There was no dramatic announcement or grand preparation. Similarly, Jesus often calls us in the middle of our routines through unexpected encounters or small opportunities to serve others. The key is to stay open and attentive to His voice, inviting Him into our daily lives through prayer and trust.
Secondly, Jesus’ call is urgent. “This is the time of fulfillment. The kingdom of God is at hand.” These words carry a sense of urgency. When Jesus called the disciples, they didn’t hesitate or overanalyze; they acted. How often do we put off responding to Christ, telling ourselves we’ll “get serious about faith” later? Jesus calls us now, in this moment, to embrace His mission and live the Gospel.
Thirdly, following Jesus means change. To follow Christ, we must let go of old habits, sinful ways, or comforts that hold us back. It’s a call to continual conversion—leaving behind our "old self" and embracing a new life in Christ. This isn’t always easy, but it’s essential if we want to live fully in His grace.
Response to Jesus
The disciples’ response to Jesus reminds us that we don’t need to have it all figured out before we follow Him. What matters is our willingness to trust and say “yes.” Like them, we’re called to leave behind our nets—our distractions, fears, and sins—and walk into the life Christ has prepared for us.
So today, ask yourself: What is Jesus calling me to leave behind? How is He inviting me to follow Him more closely? And when that call comes—whether it’s in the middle of your work, your family life, or even your struggles—you may respond like the disciples: immediately, willingly, and joyfully.
- Father Boby's inspirational homily was recorded live during Mass at the Father Peyton Center this morning. You can view the Mass (and the Rosary at the 30-minute mark) on the Family Rosary YouTube page.
- To join the Rosary and Mass Livestream, visit the Family Rosary YouTube or Facebook page at 11:30 a.m. Eastern, Monday – Friday. Consider inviting others to join too! (*If you are not a member of Facebook and a signup window appears, simply select the X at the top of the pop-up message and continue to the livestream.)
