September 19, 2011 Even Above Family

Even Above Family
Read Luke 13 - 15

Luke 14:26-27 “If anyone comes to me and does not hate his father and mother, his wife and children, his brothers and sisters — yes, even his own life — he cannot be my disciple. 27 And anyone who does not carry his cross and follow me cannot be my disciple.”

THIS IS a hard saying. It sounds so “anti-Jesus”. What is Jesus’ point?
Today I hear many people who are called to minister in a certain place say, “I’ve decided to stay where I am because of my family.” It’s as if the family has become an idol. They are saying to Jesus, “My family is more important than you.”
Ouch.
Yes, as difficult as it is, we are to give up everything, even our own family and put our Lord first in our heart. “Family first” means Jesus is less than first. Why does he require that much love from you?
First of all, he loves you that much. Yes, Jesus submitted to God’s will, and he gave himself to death on the cross for you.
Second, that “Jesus first” love puts you into a deep, passionate place with him. When you love Jesus that much you will experience his wonder wherever you go. What’s more, you will be with your first love, Jesus Christ, and that’s the most wonderful place in life now and forever.
Put Jesus first today. Proclaim your love for him and follow him wherever he invites you. Show the joy of his love to a love-lost world.


Pause and Consider: is anything more important to you than Jesus?