The time is fulfilled...the 'kingdom of God has drawn near'. The "Good News" announced to the shepherds has finally appeared in person, to the simple folk of Galilea. God himself makes his presence known , not with trumpet blasts, or lightening, thunder etc. as on Mt. Sinai. The very presence of Jesus to the fishermen, his invitation makes them leave everything: their father, friends and co-workers, their boats, nets and fishing ; everything in fact to follow this man,Jesus! What an impact this was on simple fishermen!

From then on these four men, together with others later on, will journey with Jesus, sharing their stories, their ups and downs . With Jesus they too will experience rejection and finally lose their 'friend' and 'master'. They in turn will lay down their lives for Jesus. Their example has inspired all who call themselves Christians .

What is this faith in Jesus which makes us surrender to him? The Father's unconditional love and boundless mercy for all humanity In this Jubilee Year of Mercy, the time is fulfilled, 'the kingdom has drawn near to us'. There is only thing asked of us : "believe, and follow". Jesus did not bring us any new commandments, only God's exceptional, unconditional love, for everyone without exception! This should make us stand and gaze in awe and wonder at God!