Daily Worship

Discipleship has a cost - is it too much?

Norah Summers April 04, 2014 0 0

Luke 18: 18-22

The Rich Man

A Jewish leader asked Jesus, “Good Teacher, what must I do to receive eternal life?”

“Why do you call me good?” Jesus asked him. “No one is good except God alone. You know the commandments: ‘Do not commit adultery; do not commit murder; do not steal; do not accuse anyone falsely; respect your father and your mother.’”

The man replied, “Ever since I was young, I have obeyed all these commandments.”

When Jesus heard this, he said to him, “There is still one more thing you need to do. Sell all you have and give the money to the poor, and you will have riches in heaven; then come and follow me.”

Eternal life –
sounds like a good idea!

What would this mean?
What would it cost?

So I’m just enquiring,
always best to do a bit of research before I commit myself.

Surely I’m well on my way?

I keep the law of the land.
I go to church on Sundays.
I fill my Christian Aid envelope.
I’ve taught my children their manners.
I’m kind to animals.

Is that not enough?

You tell me it’s not enough.

It isn’t just about keeping rules,
ticking boxes,
earning my place.

There will be challenges,
sacrifices,
hard times –

It could be just too much trouble,
too costly.

In a world where many know the cost of everything 
and the value of nothing,
may I not turn away.

Show me the value,
the reward,
the promise of eternal life
which you hold out to me –

and lead me in your way.

 

Norah Summers
Falkirk Trinity Church