Luke 14:25-35

Be still: Lord thank you for this time and thank you for being here to meet with me. Amen

Read: Luke 14:25-35

And whoever does not carry their cross and follow me cannot be my disciple. (v27)

Encounter: The first time I climbed Snowdon, I set off from the base with my husband Jerome, his family and their friend Richard, with a fairly tight schedule for return. Jerome and his parents had reached the top in the past and it became clear from their leisurely pace that they were happy to just make it halfway for a cuppa. But for Richard and me, there was only one goal — we had to reach the top whatever it took. We were all travelling up the mountain, but only some of us were truly committed to reaching the summit.

In today’s passage, large crowds are travelling with Jesus and there comes a point when he gives them a choice. Many travelling with him were listening, watching, showing interest and asking questions. But Jesus stops and makes it clear with the parables of the builder and the king, that travelling with him is not the same as following him. 

Following Jesus means haviang a fixed destination and settled commitment. It means counting the cost for what is needed of us, recognising that we are no longer in control but he is. The journey isn't always comfortable or aligned with iour timetable or expectations. The great thing is that Jesus sees the bigger picture when we can’t. We’re not casual companions, but disciples willing to go all the way, carrying our cross (Matt 16:24)

Apply: Imagine you’re in the crowd and have been following and watching Jesus for a long time. Ask yourself, are you simply travelling with Jesus or are you committed to the summit whatever it takes? What are some things that if Jesus told you to give up, you would find difficult? What do you need the Lord’s help with?

Devote: Lord Jesus, I choose you again today as the One I follow. Help me to count the cost honestly. Shape my heart to want what you want — and step by step lead me closer to you.