Read: Luke 9:57-62
The last few days of February are upon us. Hard to believe! Here we are at Exponential in Orlando and the last paragraph in chapter 9 reminds us that the cost of following Jesus is higher than we can imagine. Luke provides three examples of men who physically encountered Jesus with the proclamation: I will follow You!
In the first example, we get the impression that the man who met Jesus was turn off by His response:
Jesus replied, “Foxes have dens and birds have nests, but the Son of Man has no place to lay his head.” Luke 9:58
Following Jesus means you might have to leave your place of comfort, your home, your pillow, etc. Birds and beasts have a place to call home, but not the Son of Man. Mic drop.
In the second example, Jesus extends an invitation:
He said to another man, “Follow me.” But he replied, “Lord, first let me go and bury my father.” Luke 9:59
The man’s response disqualifies him for service. It seems a bit harsh, but I suspect Jesus is looking deeper into the man’s heart, clearly seeing his motivation.
The third declares his desire, but only after saying goodbye to his family.
Jesus replied, “No one who puts a hand to the plow and looks back is fit for service in the kingdom of God.” Luke 9:62
In my mind, these are just a few examples. I can come up with another dozen or so reasons not to follow Him today, at this moment. How about you?
Thoughts about serving others
This link includes a list of posts about Serving the Least, the Lost, and the Lonely.
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Let the Word evoke words. May your life encourage lives.