Following Jesus

Matthew 8:19-22 – Then a teacher of the law came to him and said, "Teacher, I will follow you wherever you go." Jesus replied, "Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has no place to lay his head." Another disciple said to him, "Lord, first let me go and bury my father." But Jesus told him, "Follow me, and let the dead bury their own dead."

Harsh words?

I was like that teacher of the law. I wanted to go to places where Jesus taught — Church, books, Bible studies – I followed His work. Until He asked these harsh words:

"Do you love me? I am calling around here. Can I live with you?"

I wouldn't share my place and creature comforts with anyone.

He was forgiving, and understanding. I kept my distance. On Sundays, I took notes. His laws were so big, that I just once had to invite Him home to ask Him everything. As soon as I did, He stayed. I knew He knew I loved Him. I even call Him Lord now, just like that disciple in verse 21.

So now as 'disciple', I enjoy helping His newly-called followers. Yet that same joy brings me pain. So little time remains for my own 'lost' family to hear Jesus! It scares me to death. I'm afraid for them. Is it too late? What love could possibly remove this fear?

He still asks me these harsh words: "Do you love me? I am calling them. Can you live with me?"

Prayer: Heavenly Father, Lord Jesus Christ, Holy Spirit, when we first believed, you placed us near you all of the time. Thank you. On our journey of faith, place us wherever you want, at any time. Amen.