Today’s scripture: Luke 9:23-27 (ESV-text and audio) (KJV) (The Message)
As you read, consider: What might God be saying to me? Summarize your thoughts in a sentence or two.
My thoughts (Steve Adams):
Stunning words, aren’t they? And they address anyone who wants to be a follower of Him. That’s you. That’s me. Right? But, deny yourself; take up your cross daily, lose your life for my sake? That’s a steep hill — or, should I say, mountain — to climb!
In thinking about these verses, it seems to me there are three basic reactions I could have to them:
- Distance Myself. My reasoning here (consciously or subconsciously) is: this is so lofty and difficult to implement that I’m going to let if fade into the background of my mind. Maybe Jesus was exaggerating to get our attention, using figurative language to make His point about something that’s not actually practical to implement.
- Condemn Myself. I see what He’s asking, but it’s such a high standard. . . I’m just not able to do it. But I should be able to do it. Maybe I’m just not a good Christian.
- Joyfully Accept Them! I realize that in order to aspire to anything great, sacrifice is required! I will bask in God’s grace, mercy, and love as Jesus inspires me to do what it takes to follow Him. I will mature to the point where many former sacrifices aren’t really sacrifices anymore — rather, they are deep joys that satisfy my soul like nothing else will. Oh, there are still many crosses I’m too scared to carry — and I’ll probably fall short much of the time — but that’s where Jesus’ mercy comes in. He will “grow me up” as I walk with Him. Thank you Jesus, for giving me levels of service to shoot for which are unattainable without your powerful and intricate, moment-by-moment impact on my soul!
Whenever someone is baptized at Jesus MCC, Pastor Jeff asks, “Are you prepared to follow Jesus, wherever that may lead?” It’s often a scary pledge to make, but how exhilarating to say “Yes, Lord!”
Thought for the day: Lord, I ask you to work in my soul, to the very essence of my being, to help me grow in my ability to follow You.
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to get started, consider the guidelines on the How to Pray page.