If He called, would You follow?

I just finished reading the story of Jesus calling the first disciples in Matthew 4, verses 18-22.  I was so challenged as to how I would respond if I was in their shoes. 

So here's the story (according to the NIV)-

"As Jesus was walking beside the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon called Peter and his brother Andrew.  They were casting a net into the lake, for they were fishermen.  'Come, follow me,' Jesus said, 'and I will make you fishers of men.'  At once (emphasis added by me) they left their nets and followed him.

Going on from there, he saw two other brothers, James son of Zebedee and his brother John.  They were in a boat with their father Zebedee, preparing their nets.  Jesus called them, and immediately (more emphasis) they left the boat and their father and followed him."

Wow...I don't know about you, but the phrases "At once" and "immediately" really strike me!  In each case, the men responded right away.  There was no "Well, maybe.  Can I think about it and get back to you?"  NO!  Their response did not include a hint of hesitation.  That just amazes me!  And in the case of James and John, they didn't even check with their father who was with them at the time.  If it was me, I would've definitely at least looked to my dad for some wisdom, let alone asked him what he thought of the idea. It's awesome to see that their response was immediate.  And that's just what Jesus was looking for! 

In our lives, when Jesus calls us to do something, do we respond and follow right away?  Or do we pause, promise to respond soon, but then never do?  I know I'm guilty of this sometimes.  I think this story gives a whole new meaning to the phrase "take a leap of faith."  That's certainly what Peter, Andrew, James, and John all did.  I believe this event was made even more special for these new disciples because they were able to share the occasion with their earthly brothers.  How amazing is that?

So...the next time Jesus calls you, will you follow?