It's a Heart Thing

Luke 6:27-38 

If we are looking for an easy and comfortable relationship with Jesus that doesn't have too many demands on our lives, that makes us feel better when we are down and promises tangible rewards in this life, we are off course and will struggle and strain with cost of discipleship.

Jesus set out the model of true discipleship as written by Luke in chapter 6, verses 27-38.  He calls us to “love the unlovely,” to love our enemies.  

The blessings and woes at the beginning of His lesson are radical. The poor, not the rich, will be rewarded, we are to be happy when we are persecuted, (rejoice in that day and leap for joy, because great is your reward in heaven.)  “We are to love our persecutors.”

Our country remains in the grip of an historically hateful and volatile political season. Many who once felt free to speak their preferences and opinions have self-muzzled to avoid confrontation and potential persecution. Most shocking for me is that we experience this even in our initiate circle of believers. How can this be? I have struggled and strained under the cost of discipleship during this stressful time, resting in the theme of Psalm 46, that God alone is our refuge.

If we are willing to hear and understand literally the “Luke 6 lesson of Jesus,” we are to love our enemies, refuse to retaliate when persecuted, to do good, to bless and pray for our enemies, to understand that possessions are less important than love, to learn mercy from examples Jesus set out for us, to forgive our debtors; in short, to follow and apply the golden rule to our lives in all circumstances. Luke 6:31 “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.”

Among the many riches of God “in Jesus,” are unmeasurable grace and extravagant love. It's a heart thing.

 “Just a closer walk with Thee, grant it Jesus is my plea, daily walking close to Thee, let it be – dear Lord let it be!”