Self-discipline to be a Disciple

Billboard from former joint parish.
 

"Whoever does not carry the cross and follow me cannot be my disciple. For which of you, intending to build a tower, does not first sit down and estimate the cost, to see whether he has enough to complete it?" Luke 14:27-28

We can either follow Jesus or someone or something else. But, know this: following Jesus is not always going to be a walk in the park. Following Jesus requires taking up the cross, an instrument of death. Being a follower, a disciple, of Jesus requires a bit of self-discipline. It is not easy going against the grain of society. It is not easy putting aside our own desires to follow in Jesus' footsteps doing the will of our Father in heaven; but, that is exactly what Jesus tells those who are considering following him. 

God does not force anyone. But, he does want everyone to follow his only begotten Son into His Kingdom. The way is not easy. It was certainly not easy for Jesus to blaze that path before us.

 “No one can serve two masters; for a slave will either hate the one and love the other, or be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and wealth." Matt 6:24

"Now if you are unwilling to serve the Lord, choose this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your ancestors served in the region beyond the River or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you are living; but as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.” Joshua 24:15

God's Peace - Pr. J