Matthew 16:24
Jesus said to his disciples, "Whoever wishes to come after me must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me."
The bible is full of stories and parables of people seeking God and looking for eternal truth. Throughout the New Testament, we hear dialog between Jesus and those he encounters asking about God, eternal life, getting to heaven, etc. Today we hear Jesus again laying down what it takes to get to heaven: self-denial, potential pain and struggle, and following Him. The question before us is, "Do we do any of that?" Do we deny ourselves of good things, nice cars, houses, decorations, lavish vacations, etc.? Do we deny ourselves of sinful thoughts and actions, ie pornography, questionable programs, attitudes or addictions?
Do you sacrifice? Do you give up a fraction of your earnings to God? Do you give of your time to the less fortunate? Do you visit friends in the hospital or at home who are sick? Have you taken a meal to a neighbor who is caring for a loved one with dementia?
How much time do you spend following Jesus? Do you only spend an hour (or less) at church? Do you pray for 5 minutes at day…really praying? Do you read scripture or writings of the saints? Do you listen to Spirit FM or do you choose other secular stations?
This is not to be a guilt trip, but a reality check. I can tell first hand that I struggle with most all of the above. I need to do better....we all do. But will you? Will you take up your cross, deny yourself and follow him? Pray for the strength to do so.
