Then he called the crowd to him along with his disciples and said: "If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me."
In our self-centered society it is not popular to deny ourselves of anything within reach. If we cannot afford to buy it outright, there is always the credit card option. There is no need to wait or decide not to pursue the desired object, just put it on credit...pay for it later.
Perhaps I am to deny my pursuit of self-satisfaction and go after what truly matters. Just maybe I am to deny me while accepting you [Jesus] and my neighbor whom you love and I'd rather just ignore him.
Is stepping outside my comfort zone, my perfect world, the way I am to take up my cross and follow? It seems that my obsession with my comfort zone is just another way of showing I am lazy, fearful, and disobedient. The words tell the tale of one who would rather maintain the status quo and live a safe life.
Did Jesus do this? Did Jesus tell us to be careful and not upset things? No, Jesus was a rebel and He expects us to be rebels too. We are to rebel against living a safe life and step out in faith. There is excitement and adventure ahead for those of us who are willing to take up that cross. The cross we carry will bear witness to the salvation Jesus gives.
Mark 8:34-38
No comments:
Post a Comment