“Whoever serves me must follow me, and where I am, there will my servant be also.” (John 12:26)
I often wonder about people who speak of Christ as if he is their best friend and greatest comfort. Are they being honest? Are they reading the Jesus found in the Gospels” Certainly, Christ can be a source of comfort, but we also know him as a perpetual thorn in our side, or a constant prick of our conscience, or a great disturber of our personal peace. Christ prophetically calls us to follow him to challenging people, places and situations. Following Christ is far from comfortable.
Let’s be honest. Where has Christ called us that we have been unwilling to go? What has he asked us to sacrifice that we are unwilling to give up? Who has Christ called us to love who we are unwilling to embrace? Christ is ready to take us to transformative places that are good for us and for the world. We won’t regret following him, but honesty is required.
Examine: In what ways have you been dishonest about following Christ: When have you made Jesus into a more palatable, comfortable Savior-a Jesus ore suited to your wants and needs? Sit with this dishonesty. Breathe. Notice thoughts and feelings that arise.
Imagine: Imagine yourself at a crossroads. One road is steep and stony; the other is a pleasant, shaded path. Jeus beckons you to foll him up the hard road. The easy road leads away from him and his path. Take a moment to honestly consider what you gain and what you sacrifice along each road.
Pray: Free me from dishonesty, O God, so I can live with truth.
