Cross of Pillows

Does your faith require lumbar support?

In Luke 18:22, Jesus is speaking to a rich young ruler. After affirming everything the man has done right, Jesus says there is still one thing missing. He tells him to let go of what he owns, give it away, and then come follow Him.

We love saying, “I’m following Jesus,” when what we really mean is, “I’m walking in the same general direction, but at my own pace, with better shoes.”

The truth is, we don’t mind giving things up as long as they’re things we never liked in the first place. “Oh, you want my greed? Take it! My pride? Sure! My Starbucks coffee? Let’s not get reckless.”

The rich young ruler walked away sad because Jesus asked for the one thing he wasn’t willing to lose. Jesus doesn’t want our leftovers. He wants the whole table.

So yeah, it’s simple. Just follow Him. But fair warning, He tends to head straight for the things you’ve been trying to avoid.

Questions for the Week:

1. When Jesus said “take up your cross,” did you picture lumbar support?

2. When taking up your cross and following Jesus gets uncomfortable, do you switch models?

3. How many times have you “prayed for clarity” when you just didn’t like the answer?

This Week in Prayer and Spiritual Garage Sales:

Jesus, I am willing to give up everything I already planned to get rid of. Please forgive me for labeling that obedience. Amen.