August 13th

August 13th -- Luke 14:15-35 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%2014:15-35&version=NLT)

Please go and read the passage!

I'm gonna' skip the parable of the feast and just look at the cost of being a disciple. It is quite a cost, after all. Nothing next to what Jesus paid, yet a high price nonetheless. He says we must hate everyone in comparison (as in in comparison to God/Jesus). That's pretty intense. I mean, we are called to LOVE our neighbour. SO, we SHOULD be loving them. Yet at the same time, how much we should love God should make that love for everyone - parents, friends, significant other, and self - seem like hate. That's a big call. He calls us to take up our cross, too. Also a big call. I mean, that "cross" represents every sin we have committed and ever will commit. I can only speak for myself, but I don't think anyone wants to try and tally up that list. I don't. He also points out it's something that needs to be intentionally thought on and through before acted on. That is because it is a huge commitment that means nothing if it is not finished, so therefore needs to be thought on to make sure it can be finished before it is begun for no reason. Basically, he is making it obvious and clear it is NOT an easy commitment, though more than worth it in the end, and it will take EVERYTHING you have to give. So think on it before you jump in. But jumping in is the best choice you will ever make.

That's all! God bless! Shalom!