Anytime you head on a mission trip, you go with the mindset that you are there to work. And work we did. That being said, on my trip home, I picked up a book that has been causing some sparks to fly in my soul. Not a Fan, by Kyle Idleman, has been a book that takes a very real look at Jesus' call to discipleship. His original followers were called to follow and in so doing, they began to realize that it would cost them something. Not money, not sweat, not even tears. At some point, it was going to cost them their very lives.
This morning, after meeting with my small group, I came upon a synonymous verse to the one, Kyle Idleman draws our attention to: "If anyone would come after me, let him deny HIMSELF and take up HIS cross and follow ME."
Many Christ followers are nothing more than fans and the specific difference is cost. What will it cost? We ask this question in so many things in our lives, but not in regards to following Jesus. Why not? Why not ask him what it will cost us to truly sacrifice and live for him? Probably because as soon as we are specific about it, we have to be specific about spending. If we leave our sacrifices vague or grey, we don't really have to buy. Maybe we can rent. Maybe we can see what the return policy is. To put it into the author's terms, have you ever had the DTR talk? (Determine the Relationship)
So, this was random, but just some thoughts as I let Jesus' original call to discipleship simmer in me. I like what it's doing, it's just uncomfortable as I see areas I haven't denied myself of or taken up in my following of Jesus.
Regardless, whether you have been a follower for some time or have never trusted Jesus, I highly encourage getting into this book and let it work on you for a bit.
