Two anglers sit by the water complaining that the worst part of taking a wife fishing was that she caught more than the two of them ever had. That light-hearted scene opens a reflection on Jesus by the lake, on nets tearing under the weight of fish, and on the calling of Levi the tax collector, who leaves his table and throws a feast for the very people nobody would eat with (Luke 5). The sermon asks about the net that holds your life together and points to the three cords it really hangs on: nearness to Jesus, admitting your own need, and a changed way of thinking. Listen if you are starting to notice how full of holes your own net can be.
Discussion questions
For your small group or for personal reflection after the sermon.
- In Luke 5:27-32 Levi hears "Follow me," leaves everything, and throws a banquet for Jesus, tax collectors and sinners. What does this scene show about how Jesus approached people whom others kept at a distance?
- The Pharisees ask, "Why do you eat and drink with tax collectors and sinners?" How does the speaker explain that Israel's being set apart for God turned, in their thinking, into being set apart from people?
- The speaker compares life to a net holding our values, our family and what matters to us. Where can you see holes in your net right now, and what are they showing you?
- Jesus says it is the sick who need a doctor. Why does the sermon call recognizing our need for God a good thing rather than a failure, and what makes it hard for you to admit that need?
- Metanoia means looking from a different perspective and changing the way we think. What in your thinking about Jesus, or about who is welcome at His table, needs that kind of change today?
- The speaker likens Jesus' feast to an all inclusive holiday where no one checks your wristband. Who could you help draw closer to that table this week, and how will you do it?
