Early this morning I was reading in Luke 14 and I got to thinking about whether we really count the cost of passionate worship, which is really the cost of following Him. Jesus says some really straight forward things in chapter 14. "Anyone who comes to me but refuses to let go of father, mother, spouse, children, brothers, sisters - yes, even one's own self! - can't be my disciple (worshipper). Anyone who won't shoulder his own cross and follow behind me can't be my disciple." He then goes into a discussion of counting the cost in all kinds of situations. Then in v. 33 He says, "Simply put, if you're not willing to take what is dearest to you, whether plans or people, and kiss it good-bye, you can't be my disciple." Now, obviously He isn't saying turn your back on your responsibilities and/or relationships. What He is clearly saying, however, is that they should never be put before Him.
Have you counted the cost of being a passionate follower and worshipper of Christ? Jesus, and interestingly enough even the world, is saying, "Don't tell me, show me." Jesus never meant for principles of the kingdom life to be theoretical. He challenges us to live by them. If we choose to walk in His footsteps, it is seen as radical. Passionate, intense feelings and convictions will steer us to an authentic follow-ship and worship. As worshippers we must choose to learn from life, live in rhythm with life, balancing relationships and priorities because we know our role in Him. Praying must be a way of life as we live the life of a worshipper with the mission He has given us. Only then, having counted the cost, can we be passionate worshippers. mjm
