A Living Sacrifice
Mark 8:34-35
And calling the crowd to him with his disciples, he said to them, “If anyone comes after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake and the gospel’s will save it.
What are you willing to sacrifice to follow Jesus?
Jesus challenged his disciples to take up their cross to be his follower. What did Jesus mean by this? This example was given to them because it was the greatest illustration of the ultimate sacrifice – his death on a Roman cross. In this context, it’s a depiction of self-denial, and being obedient and dependent on Christ alone. To be a follower of Jesus, we are called to surrender our plans in exchange for his will for us.
It is easy to follow Jesus when life is good but when we are put to the test by trials, our commitment to take up our cross becomes less appealing. We are recognized as his disciple by the way we love one another. Placing the needs of others before our own is an example of self-denial. Discipleship is a sacrifice that places Christ at the center and above everything else. Jesus did not promise that we would be without tribulation. Would you be willing to lose friends, family, your reputation, career, finances, or possibly even your life all for the sake of Christ? Sacrifice has always been associated with following Jesus. It takes passion, zeal, and determination empowered by the Holy Spirit all to the glory of God.
Following Christ sets us apart. We are his saints called to live sacrificially, devoted to Christ, and loving others which are counterintuitive to the world and our flesh. The apostles chose to sacrifice all to serve God and his people. We should also choose to take up our cross and be a living sacrifice willing to experience uncomfortable situations that may be required of us. The road we travel may be rough, but the reward is priceless.
What obstacles are hindering your obedience? Are you willing to let them go?
Is there something or someone in your life you are willing to deny to follow Jesus?
Jesus, thank you that you made the ultimate sacrifice so that I could have eternal life. I want to be selfless and die to myself every day for your name’s sake. Help me to walk in obedience to what you call me to do even if it’s uncomfortable. Please reveal to me the areas of my life or people in my life that I need to let go of. I don’t want to have any idols before you. Give me the strength and faith to take up my cross daily so my life will bring you glory. Amen.
Scripture References:
Matthew 10:38; Luke 9:23; Luke 14:26-27; Galatians 2:20; Galatians 5:24
