K Karpen: "Walking with Jesus" (Homily for January 25, 2026) Artwork

St. Paul & St. Andrew's Sermon and Prayercast

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St. Paul & St. Andrew's Sermon and Prayercast

K Karpen: "Walking with Jesus" (Homily for January 25, 2026)

January 25, 2026 • St. Paul & St. Andrew

"Immediately, they left their nets and followed Jesus" - Matthew 4:20

Friends,

Those words from the gospels are so familiar. Jesus gathers disciples, and they 'follow' him.

This week, I would love to consider a different understanding of the word we translate follow. The Greek word ἀκολουθέω (akoloutheo) can mean 'to follow' -- but a different, and maybe better translation, would be simply: 'to come with, or to accompany.'

Why do I care? As I think about my own walk with Jesus, what I believe I need at this point in my life is a little company, a little support, a bit of consolation for the moments I just want to throw up my hands in despair. Help me, Jesus. Accompany me, and let me accompany you.

See you Sunday!