And He said to them, Follow Me and I will make you fishers of men. Matt 4:19

One of my favorite inspirational stories is written by Loren Eisley, used by many speakers and writers. The delivery, circumstances, and characters of “The Star Thrower” may vary with each version, but the main motivational idea remains the same.  May we visit that story again, this time adding a scene with potential for the greatest impact.

A tropical storm caused millions of star fish to wash up onto a local beach.  A man who lived in the area was one of the first on the scene. With star fish littered on the beach for as far as his eye could see, he noticed a young woman on the beach and in their midst.  She was picking up individual star fish and tossing them back into the ocean.  The gentleman approached her and said, “What are you doing?”  She said, “I’m throwing star fish back into the sea.”  He said, “Your effort won’t make a difference, there’s too many of them.”  Her humble reply, “It will for the ones I throw back.”

We have been satisfied with the moral of this story—until now.

May we be bold enough to suggest there is room for the moral of the story to get even better.  If we can learn from a kind and focused individual’s effort, then what about this:  Suppose the young lady replied in the same powerful way, but with an extended opportunity for the gentleman on the scene to grow as well. — “It will for the ones I throw back, sir, and I could use your help; if you would help me, we can make a greater difference together.”

Let’s determine that our desire for this day forward is to cooperate and grow with people in a manner we may have missed in our past.  Working together for something decent and exceptional seems too good for us not to pursue.  So, as we walk our individual beaches, let’s stay open to the possibility of making a more comprehensive difference!

Finally and most importantly, beyond mere human unity, is the recognition and acceptance of the One who created the beaches, star fish, people and all else – Almighty God.   With a relationship with the Lord, our real purpose lights up, and an eternal difference in our lives generate.

Family and friends, may God’s rich blessings help us to see there is abundant life in the strength of His unity.  Following Him is only part of His great invitation to us.  Our inviting others and making disciples of them is where the real inspiration and starring action takes place.

Amos 3:3; Prov 11:30; Phil 4:13; Matt 18:20; John 10:10