Jesus’s inner circle knew from the start that they had been called into an intimate relationship with this unusual rabbi. But the Messiah was here for more than their personal well-being—and ours. From the start, Jesus made it clear he was on a mission: 

“Come follow me and I will send you out to fish for people.” 

“Follow me” is from the Greek word akoloutheo, from the root that means literally, “to walk the same road.” 

How do we “walk the same road” now when Jesus is no longer physically present? 

We can still walk the same kind of roads as Jesus did. His “road” did include the synagogue, where Jesus often taught, but he and his disciples spent most of their time outside, on the road, wherever the people were: in villages, houses, highways, cities, gardens, deserts, and grain fields. What did he do on those roads? He healed, fed, challenged, forgave and loved. Maybe we spend too much time trying to get people through our church doors rather than getting church people out where people actually congregate—out “on the road.” 

Prayer

Lord Jesus, help me to see that church is not a destination, but a filling station, so I can fuel up for the road trip I’m taking with you. At work, at school, in my neighborhood, online, and at home, let me remember in all these things that I get to walk these roads together with you. Amen.