“Gone fishing” is a classic (mostly American, I think) phrase. There’s a “Gone Fishin’” movie. You can buy “Gone Fishing” plaques at Walmart. There’s a Colorado charter fishing outfit with the same name.
Who wouldn’t love to head out of work early and put up a sign “Gone fishing” for the rest of the day?
The fishing fanatics among us would be all for it, I’m sure. Even those who are not so excited about the prospect of fishing, or are somewhat indifferent, could get on board. Apparently “gone fishing” is such a common term that, according to the dictionary, it doesn’t always have to literally mean you’re out trying to catch fish. Just doing something fun and relaxing or on vacation instead of being at your job.
Fishing also has a symbolic meaning when Jesus calls his first disciples. In the Gospel of Mark he sees Simon and Andrew and says to them, . . . . “Come, follow me,” … “and I will send you out to fish for people.” (Mark 1:17)
The fishing isn’t in the ocean or in a lake, but in our communities and families and neighborhoods. Trying to “capture” others with the Word and the Holy Spirit so that they believe in and follow Jesus as their Savior.
We busy ourselves with all kinds of activities, and many of them are noble and give glory to God. Some less so. Either way, the Lord sends us out also to fish for people. It’s a great idea to hang up the “Gone fishing” sign on a regular basis, knowing that it means we’ve put other commitments on hold so we can share the gospel.
We do that by preaching to those around us, “The time has come.” “The kingdom of God has come near.” “Repent and believe the good news!” (Mark 1:15)