Terms and Conditions

Did you consider what you signed on for?  When you came to Christ, did you take time to consider what you signed on for?  I must admit that I never really paid much attention to the story Jesus tells in Luke 14:25-35.  I’m not sure I would have changed my mind about accepting Jesus, but I think I would have studied a little longer…..Actually counted the Cost.

Here’s the thing:  in the brand of Christianity many practice today, I don’t think too many folks considered the true cost of following Jesus.  I think there’s a whole bunch of people (myself included) who came to Jesus on their own terms, and not on Jesus’ terms.    It turns out that simply adding Jesus to the end of a list of stuff, accomplishments, and ideals that make up your life isn’t exactly what God had in mind.  In fact, it’s the exact opposite of what God calls for.

Luke 14:25-27

Large crowds were traveling with Jesus, and turning to them he said: “If anyone comes to me and does not hate his father and mother, his wife and children, his brothers and sisters—yes, even his own life—he cannot be my disciple. And anyone who does not carry his cross and follow me cannot be my disciple.

Have you ever really read this passage?  Do you understand it?  Maybe I’m wrong, but here’s my take:

My love for Jesus needs to be so great that what ever emotion/love/respect/compassion  I have for everyone else (including myself) appears as hatred by comparison to that Love for Jesus.

Where is Jesus at on your list?  Did you come to Jesus on his terms or yours?