Summer 1981
Dear Friends

Mark 1:16-17 gives the account of the call of our Lord upon two lives which responded and followed Him. In the workings of this call is a truth needed to be heard and considered by many of us in our day: our Lord is yet calling disciples. His method and purpose has not changed.

“Now as he walked by the Sea of Galilee, He saw Simon and Andrew his brother casting a net into the sea: for they were fishers. And Jesus said unto them, Come ye after me, and I will make you to become fishers of men.”

Two things quickly catch our attention here. First, Jesus used terms they easily understood. He spoke of their becoming fishermen, using their very specific vocation, yet lifting it to a higher plane. The principle is this: we need not necessarily change our vocation—our vision can be lifted higher in the very thing we do. The emphasis changed from fish to men. Many of us need to meditate on this and meet the Lord here in our lives.

Next, Jesus spoke of becoming a fisher rather than fishing. There is the submitting of our lives for the processing of God for His purposes. Yet, the fishing will come. Peter, on the day of Pentecost, caught 3,000.

The content of “The Banner” is a prayerful effort to cause the Lord’s people to see this higher calling and purpose, that without great changes in our lives, we may be lifted to a higher plane of vision. Our desire is that you may read it with this in view.

The help and encouragement of those who feel a part of this ministry is greatly needed. Your gifts are appreciated and make possible the continuation of the work of the Lord here.

May our Lord richly bless you for your part.

Wade Taylor