The first words Jesus speaks to his disciples in the new testament are "follow me".
The last words recorded by Matthew begin "Go and make disciples"(or followers).
How nice to have this short, clear, and practical directive from Jesus.
And yet there are so many of us who seem to listen other voices. So many times when we are following other footsteps.
Paul attempts to encourage our discipleship. One of my favorite of Paul's attempts is found in his letter to the Christians at Phillipi.
"Beloved,
whatever is true,
whatever is honorable,
whatever is just,
whatever is pure,
whatever is pleasing,
whatever is commendable,
if there is any excellence, and
if there is anything worthy of praise,
think about these things
(Phil 4:8)
How often is our attention directed at earthly ways and interests!
Paul does not say:
whatever will impress others,
whatever can be successfully promoted,
whatever will produce a profit,
whatever advances our interests,
whatever is Republican (or Democratic),
whatever is constitutional,
whatever a majority will support,
think on these things.
When Jesus says "Follow me", it is in direct challenge to the agendas, the ideologies, the corporate interests and the political aspirations of this world.
Where are your thoughts?
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