Then Jesus said to his disciples, “If any of you want to be my follower, you must turn from your selfish ways, take up your cross and follow me. If you try to hang on to your life you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake you will save it” – Matthew 16:24-25
Jesus has just finished predicting his death again. He’s gone into detail with His disciples about the awful things that are about to come to pass. He’s warned them, done his best to prepare them.
Jesus was at this time modeling for us exactly what it means to be a disciple. It means laying aside your agenda for your life and taking up God’s agenda for your life. On the surface that seems to be scary but when you pull back the curtain you realize it’s the only option that makes sense.
If you will truly embrace discipleship you will find in Christ more purpose, joy, fulfillment and enrichment than you could ever imagine. At the end of the day that sounds a lot like life and real living.
Oh, Father, sometimes fear and worry gets in the way of Your plans for me. I start thinking about what I am giving up instead of what I am getting in return. I get caught up in all of the trappings of the world. Restore my focus to You. Let me remember that discipleship is really about servanthood. I want Your name to receive all glory and honor. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
