Have you ever wondered how Jesus convinced Peter, Andrew, James, John, and others to drop everything, leave it all behind, and start following Him—with no stated destination, spelled-out itinerary, or promise of safe passage and return? Exactly how did Jesus pull that off? You see this in the first chapter of Mark’s Gospel. First, Jesus came to their town. Second, He hung around with them for a number of days. Third, without warning, Jesus disappeared.

Peter and the others looked for Jesus everywhere. Finally, they found Him away from town and in the wilderness, walking stick in hand, ready for a long day’s journey. Peter says, Don’t you know everyone has been asking for you? [Mark 1:37] Jesus’ reply, in essence, was this: Yes, but we need to be going. I have many other towns to visit. [Mark 1:38] It was clear there was no point trying to convince Jesus to come back. He was already standing up and starting down the road.

In that instant, Peter and the others had a decision to make. Jesus wasn’t laying out various options. By His very actions, He was issuing a command.

Sometimes we wonder where God is in our life. In such times, let’s be sure to start following Jesus anew – day after day.

This is Luis Palau.