There was a time when I was more “understanding” in my response to those who felt that Jesus was asking too much of them. The signs of the times have made me less so. As our culture spirals out of control into consumeristic hedonism, this has become a matter of conscience for me. Do we have the luxury of remaining silent while the world continues to rob and murder souls?
It’s always been troublesome that Jesus calls us to come with him and die. Remember the rich young man from the Gospels? Jesus asked him to sell his possessions and come follow. The young man couldn’t do that…his heart was buried deeply in his stuff. The Christian life is not meant to be convenient, or easy, or entertaining. Our reward is not in this life-and though the Lord does give us many blessings and a few wonderful surprises along the way-the best is yet to come. The trajectory of a life lived in Christ is toward sacrifice and self denial for the sake of a dying world. Yes, it is hard. It is a path spattered with blood, sweat and tears. But those who take this road less traveled see more of Jesus: because we need more of Jesus.
I propose that we need to boldly [and honestly] proclaim that the Kingdom of God brings us outside our comfort zones. Sects within high-profile American Christianity have made the Gospel into a “quality of life” choice, and have birthed a no-commitment spirituality. We need to tell the truth about losing our lives for Jesus. We need to tell our people to seek first the Kingdom of God, and trust Him to take care of the rest. God help us to be faithful.
