“Large crowds were traveling with Jesus, and turning to them he said: 26 “If anyone comes to me and does not hate father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters—yes, even their own life—such a person cannot be my disciple. 27 And whoever does not carry their cross and follow me cannot be my disciple.” Luke 14.25-27
It is Friday, and I am in Costa Rica. I have been here six days with the team, and it has been very good. We have ministered to many people we have met, and we ourselves have enjoyed rich times of worship, fellowship, and gathering.
Yet today my body, mind, and spirit are weary. Even so, my soul is good—blessed and thankful. I miss Texas, my wife, my kids, our dogs, my routine, the ranch, unsweet tea, and a large iced coffee. These feel like minor things when weighed against the privilege of helping people see Jesus.
As I read this passage, I am struck that the large crowds traveling with Jesus were also away from home. They were on the road, traveling from house to house and town to town, preaching the good news. Our team is doing something similar—away from our normal comforts—so that the Kingdom of God might be displayed more clearly.
In the midst of the journey, Jesus issues a sobering call: “If anyone comes to me and does not hate [that is, reject or subordinate] father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters—yes, even their own life—such a person cannot be my disciple.” The words sound harsh, but Jesus is calling for complete and total surrender. He demands that we die to self, lay down every competing loyalty, and follow Him above all else.
He continues: “And whoever does not carry their cross and follow me cannot be my disciple.” To carry the cross means willingly embracing the burden of sacrifice and suffering that comes with following Christ. Jesus not only commanded this—He lived it. He carried His own cross and died upon it, just as He said He would. And then He overcame.
Following Christ is not simple, easy, or comfortable. It is often challenging and difficult—but it is deeply rewarding. Great will be our reward in heaven.
So as I sit in this small, humble cabin in the mountains of Costa Rica, I give thanks for the privilege of this sacrifice. Thank You, Lord, for Your love for me. Thank You for allowing me to join in Your call to proclaim Your word and advance Your Kingdom.
“O Lord God, You are good and loving. When my love fails, Your love remains steadfast. You are the everlasting God, faithful and just. Give me patience, Lord, and grace for all. You have been so kind to me—help me display that same kindness to others. Teach me how to walk in obedience to Your ways. Come now, Holy Spirit, and find me willing. For You are good, and Your love endures forever. Amen.