Trusting Christ’s Path.

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“And he said to all, If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.” Luke 9:23 English Standard Version

While visiting home, I was introduced to a game called “Ticket to Ride” by my brother-in-law. There are several factors to consider in order to win the game. You can go for the longest train, you can try to complete a few routes that are worth big points, or you can try to complete as many routes as possible.

All too often I think that my path will be better than the one that God has laid ahead for me. I know that my path will be easier and more comfortable. Sometimes, I just think my way is better.

I know that God knows best, and I know that sometimes God’s way is not comfortable. I am sometimes so weak that even while knowing that God is in control I try to take the reigns, and go an easier way, but I know there is only one way.

When Jesus spoke the words in Luke 9:23, he was not trying to persuade people to follow him by making it seem like an appealing and irresistible journey, full of fun and good times. Rather, Jesus says straight away that in following him there is a cross to be taken up, and the denial of our self and what we would have for ourselves.

Yet, in spite of the trials we will undoubtedly face, Jesus promises eternal rewards – dwelling forever in the presence and in communion with the triune God. Living forever with God, who loved us enough to send his Son to die for us, is worth abandoning our own path to follow Jesus.

“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.” 1 Peter 1: 3 English Standard Version

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