Lent: Journey According To LukeSample

THE CROSS IS COSTLY

DEVOTION
‘Can I be a believer but not a disciple?’ I was once asked. ‘What do you think is the difference between a believer and a disciple?’ I responded. Candidly she answered, ‘There are higher requirements for disciples.’ The truth is, whether you claim to be a believer or a follower, Jesus gives no excuse: ‘If anyone comes to me and does not ‘hate’… cannot be my disciple.’ ‘Hate’ is an exaggeration normal in this kind of teaching. It does not mean alienation from people, or being destructive of one’s own life. Rather is emphasizes that nothing should limit the freedom to follow Jesus.

Jesus sees himself not only as our Savior, but also our Lord, our Master. One cannot serve two masters. Either you will devote to one and despise the other. Some might think, ‘I won’t deny that I’m a believer of Jesus, but to follow him closely is another story. It depends on the cost I have to pay.’ Throughout my journey of following Jesus, I have learnt something precious: though the cost of obedience is high, that of disobedience is always higher – if not unbearable. The Cross is costly and radical. It is not moderate. Just as you would not order a cup of lukewarm coffee or a warm ice cream (it’s either hot or cold!), the same principle applies to your relationship with your Master.

FOR REFLECTION
• What is your status now, a believer, a traveller or a disciple? Or do you want to draw back?
• Are you traveling or walking with Jesus?
• What cost are you willing to pay in order to walk with Jesus and follow him as a disciple? Jesus will not lower his requirement. The question is: are you willing to give up everything to follow him?

PRAYER
Father, have mercy on me. Open my spiritual eyes so I can see The Kingdom of God and find the pearl, so that I’m willing to lay down everything in this world to follow you wholeheartedly. Help me be willing to be disciplined by you as your true child, and become salt and light in this world of darkness. Amen.