Why “Into the Deep”?
Our blog title “Into the Deep” comes from the biblical passage Luke 5, which God brought to our attention during early days of this journey. Luke 5 tells the account of Jesus calling his first disciples to follow him. The crowds were pressing in on Jesus, eager to hear his teachings by the lake of Gannesaret. We are told that Simon Peter was a fisherman, washing his nets at the time, done for the day. Jesus got into Simon’s fishing boat, pushed just off the shore and taught the crowds. After teaching, Jesus told Simon, “Put out into the deep and let down your nets for a catch” (vs.4). Simon explains, “Master, we toiled all night and took nothing! But at your word I will let down the nets” (vs.5). Following Simon’s seemingly doubtful obedience, they caught such a tremendous number of fish that their nets were breaking and the boat began to sink. Their partners came with another boat to help, which was also filled to such capacity that it began to sink. Simon Peter was overwhelmed, falling down at Jesus’ knees exclaiming “Depart from me, for I am a sinful man.” He and his partners then left everything and followed Jesus (vs.11).
Despite Simon’s doubt in Jesus’ instructions, he was willing to obey. It was after his active obedience that he experienced the miraculous power of Jesus Christ. His reaction was then one of fear and humility, for he had finally seen in full who Jesus really was.
Likewise, for us, much of our Christian lives have been defined by learning “on the shores.” We have spent countless hours in spiritual mental exercise, theological debate, bible studies and church functions. While these endeavors definitely serve an important role, at some point we all have to “put out into the deep” and follow Jesus with active obedience. It is only then that we will fully experience the power of the living Christ.
Into the Deep 
Your message, courage and obedience is so inspiring. I am so proud to have worked with you two and would love to know more specifically how to pray for you all and help in whatever way I can. Thanks for your fine Christian example!! May the Lord bless you with an outpouring of His Grace Favor peace and Joy..
Much Love to you and your family, Julie Cobb
Thank you Julie. We can send you our newsletters by email which will include updates and prayer needs. We appreciate your encouragement and prayers!
I have always wondered what it must have been like for the disciples to just stop what they were doing and follow Christ. I just prayed and asked the Lord to show me where I can serve Him in a way that is intentional and focused on sharing the Gospel. Thank you for “encouraging your brethren.”
I am a nurse on 4R at PWMC, and also a patient at Generations. We were all saddened to see you both go, and your patients especially were. I am reading your site for the first time and it is so beautiful I have tears filling my eyes and goose bumps in June! You two are such an amazing example of exactly what the Lord hopes of all of us. You left your comforts and took your gifts to share with those who are truly in need! God Bless your beautiful family, you are truly an inspiration!!! You are all in our prayers!