Jesus called the crowd to gather around Him with His disciples and said, “Whoever wants to live this life with me must give up pursuing what you want. Instead, forget about yourself, embrace the suffering you will experience in this world, and follow me.” (Mark 8:34)
What do you want? No, not the acceptable, honorable, public answer. Deep inside you, what do you long for? Security? Acceptance? Significance?
Jesus explains very simply and directly that following Him is not possible if you keep pursuing these goals that other people around you are seeking. This world offers a long list of diversions to fill any emptiness you may want to fill. Considering the many alternatives, and the strong attraction they have, Jesus spoke in clear, concise terms; “give up,” “forget about,” literally “take up your cross daily.” He was preparing would-be followers for an experience that would look a lot like His own life. Following Jesus, you will spend your life; giving yourself to other people so that they will come to know the Lord. This message is for you too.
You must want Jesus Christ most and only, if you want to experience the life He offers.
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