Looking into the lectionary - Church vitality and Blockbuster

Matthew 4:12-23 Third Sunday after the Epiphany January 25, 2026 This is the only scene in Matthew’s Gospel where we witness Jesus calling his disciples. Later, they simply appear — already following, already listening, already participating in the work of the kingdom (see Matthew 10:1-4). But here, on the shore of the Sea of Galilee, we see the moment that changes everything. In Matthew 4:12-23, the author draws our attention to two things about these first followers: their family ties and their work. Simon Peter and Andrew are brothers, as are James and John. And Matthew names Zebedee, their father, too. Fishing is not just their job; it’s identity, security, belonging. Their lives are formed by the inherited knowledge of generations, not a chosen path, but one grown into. And then Jesus arrives: “Follow me, and I will make you fish for people” This is not a promise to improve their business model or expand the family enterprise. His call is about transformation — a shift in allegiance, imagination and purpose. We often preach Matthew 4:12-23 heroically. Look how quickly the disciples respond! Look at their courage! They drop their nets “immediately,” as if they already know Jesus’ voice and the direction their lives must now take. And that is beautiful. But what about the father left in the boat? Zebedee had trained his sons and sacrificed for them. They were to inherit the family business, care for their elders, carry on the name. In James and John, a family made plans and anchored their hope. Now, they choose differently. When these two young men step out at the water’s edge and follow Jesus, Zebedee watches his sons choose an unknown, potentially dangerous path. To some, Jesus is a prophet. To others, a troublemaker. To Rome, eventually, a threat. ... Read the rest of the commentary at pres-outlook.org. Want the worship resources for January 18, 2026? You can find them here. Order of worship — January 25, 2026 by Teri McDowell Ott Lessons from Blockbuster: Church decline and vitality by Mark Elsdon Inside the PC(USA)’s mission shift by John A. Bolt Lamenting the Minneapolis ICE shooting by Teri McDowell Ott Why universalism belongs in the Reformed tradition by Lucus Levy Keppel A turning point in the church's search for a new confession by Harriet Riley IN CASE YOU MISSED IT... The hollow moral core of Marty Supreme ‘Marty Supreme’ is an excellent film about a despicable confidence man. It perfectly reflects our historical moment, writes Jana Riess. Two pastors will stand for election as co-moderators of the 227th General Assembly The Rev. Dr. Kristopher D. Schondelmeyer and the Rev. Marta Pumroy-Cordero were endorsed by their presbyteries in their call to stand as co-moderators of the 227th General Assembly. —  Mike Ferguson Notes to John Joan Didion's "Notes to John" is a helpful tool for pastors, chaplains and others initiating difficult conversations with families in crisis, writes Andrew Taylor-Troutman. Amanda Seyfried sees ‘The Testament of Ann Lee’ as a search for divine safety The actress's portrayal of the Shaker movement founder has earned her a Golden Globe nomination. — Kathryn Post Remembering Richard Smallwood: how his music became modern-day psalm Daniel Heath remembers Richard Smallwood, whose music taught the church how to pray, lament and hope. Holding the complexities of U.S. involvement in Latin America Can we love our country and still tell the truth about its power? Greg Allen-Pickett reflects on U.S. involvement in Latin America. Queen Latifah: The theology of dignity From “U.N.I.T.Y.” to “Ladies First,” Queen Latifah refuses disrespect and insists on dignity. In this episode of “Theology of Hip-Hop," Chris Burton reflects on Black womanhood and the image of God. A daily Lenten devotional Explore how to live faithfully amid division and uncertainty through Matthew’s Gospel.