Scripture for September 12 2010

Luke 14:25-33.  What does it take to be a disciple of Jesus Christ?  This passage talks about hating fathers, mothers, sons and daughters and even your own life.  It tells us to take up our cross.  Sure doesn't sound like a bed of roses!  To be a disciple is to serve rather than be served.  The cost is not cheap.  Jesus inquires of us: would we not stop and calculate the cost of materials and labor before starting a building project?  Would the leader of a nation not take time to consider if he/she has the chance to win before going to war?  Entering into the discipleship of Jesus Christ requires just as much if not more of our consideration.  Too often we find ourselves taking on a commitment too lightly without counting the cost of our time, talents, money, and yes, even our comfort and security.  Then when the going gets tough, we want to back out and quit.  Faithful disicpleship is not something that we take on and off whenever we feel like it or when it suits us.  It requires a commitment to follow Christ no matter where it takes us and what is asked of us.