Called to discipleship
By Steve Nailor
Recently, I was invited to be the speaker for our Men’s District Communion Service. To prepare, I reflected on how I arrived at the position of serving God as the national president. I never dreamed that I would be leading a Communion service for the district, let alone as their national president.
Just as I was called, so each of us is called to make disciples for the transformation of the world.
We are not called to make more work for our pastors. We are called to help them create disciples. We want to work with them in the trenches with our men.
Creating disciples is hard work and it starts with you and me. It is difficult to support discipleship if you are not practicing discipleship yourself.
In the beginning, Jesus chose 12 disciples. Think about the men he chose. James and John, so hot tempered they were called the “sons of thunder.” Peter, impetuous, outspoken and when Jesus needed him the most, he denied him three times. Simon, a zealot terrorist, and Judas, who would betray him.
Why these 12?
They were not rich. They were not of high social standing. They were not well educated.
Why were they acceptable to Jesus?
They were ordinary men, but they were available and ready to learn. Matthew left his tax office, James and John left their fishing nets, and together they spent time with Jesus.
These 12 were willing to assume responsibility for ministry. They were willing to get involved and stay involved with people and to be taught by Jesus.
Are you available?
Will you leave your boat, your computer, your television set to follow him?
Finally, the disciples chose to spend time with one another. Yes, Jesus did the selecting. He chose those who were teachable, available, and willing to assume responsibility. But, spending time together through study and fellowship drew the men together.
I believe Christianity is caught, not taught.
A magnet cannot teach magnetism to a lump of iron. But if the two spend time together and the magnet rubs up against the iron, very soon you will have two magnets. It is the same with discipling. Men who are teachable, available, responsible and willing to spend time with others become examples and draw others to them.
During this Advent season of joy and celebration, remember there are families who have experienced loss. It can be difficult for them to find joy in the season.
People need others who will be with them and support them. God is always with us and we need to share His love and support with others.
Becoming a disciple means affecting others, especially during the holiday season.
Do others see you as a disciple?
If you asked them, what would they say?
Steve Nailor, president
National Association of Conference Presidents of UM Men