Have you met people recently you have not seen for a long time, perhaps even years? Did you see a “˜change”™ in them?

If you have attended a high school reunion you may be able to relate to the following. How disappointing to see people who have not changed their behavior from the time they were in high school (especially after fifty years!). Perhaps you could note a change in those who have become rude or “˜coarse”™ in their attitudes ““ it makes me wonder what life has handed them. (When, not if, life gives hard circumstances and a person does not know Jesus as their Savior and their God ““ bitterness and resentment can “˜coarsen”™ a person.)

Then there are those who have changed ““ for the better.

A check list may be in order: have I changed for the better because I know Jesus? If not, what do I now need to do in order to be responsive to hard things in life? Your answer may be different from mine”¦my question for myself: Am I putting God”™s words into practice in my home, my community, my church?

Simon Peter is the disciple we are going to briefly consider today”¦there will be much more about Simon in the weeks ahead as we look at the “˜Life of Christ”™.

(NASB) John 1:42 “He (Andrew) brought him to Jesus”¦” (Parenthesis added)

Simon went with Andrew, his brother, who was excited! Simon was willing to meet this Man Whom Andrew declared, “˜We have found the Messiah.”™

What an astounding statement”¦the Anointed One of God was there, right there. The One Who had been expected by the Jews for centuries.

What are people looking for today in their leaders? Perhaps they are looking for a leader who will take the economic chaos and bring prosperity. Leaders make wonderful promises and people have great expectations. People want a leader who will lead with wisdom and vigor. Are people looking for a “˜messiah”™ figure? If so, I believe there will only be disappointment.

Followers of Christ put their faith in the living Lord Jesus Christ, above people, His promises are always kept.

(NASB) John 1:42 “Jesus looked at him (Simon)”¦” (Parenthesis added)

When Jesus looks at you, He knows you! He knows who you can become through a faith in Him. Do you know Him?

(NASB) John 1:42 “and said, “˜You are Simon the son of John; you shall be called Cephas”™ (which is translated Peter).”

Jesus identified Simon as the son of John ““ Jesus can identify you as the child of your parents.

Jesus foretold who Simon would become ~ a Rock ““ a leader among the followers of Christ.

What is Jesus changing in you? Do you know Him?