Week 11: The Cost of Following Jesus
Following Jesus means choosing the better way, a life of purpose, joy, and freedom that begins with surrender. In today’s reading, Jesus invites us to deny ourselves, take up our cross daily, and follow Him, not as a heavy burden, but as the path to true life. We once lived for ourselves, trapped by sin and chasing satisfaction that never lasted. But in Christ, we’re offered something so much greater. Denying ourselves isn't about missing out; it's about gaining everything. Today’s passage reminds us that laying down our lives for Jesus is not a loss, but the beginning of living fully and freely for the One who gave everything for us.
Read Luke 9:23-26 (ESV)
“And he said to all, 'If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will save it. For what does it profit a man if he gains the whole world and loses or forfeits himself? For whoever is ashamed of me and of my words, of him will the Son of Man be ashamed when he comes in his glory and the glory of the Father and of the holy angels.”
Reflection:
What are some areas in my life where I struggle to deny myself and follow Jesus?
Why does Jesus call His followers to take up their cross daily?