Focus

Slow your breathing and become aware of the taking in and letting out of your breath. Focus on putting things aside so you will be open to what God is saying to you today.

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Read

Luke 6:20-31 New Revised Standard Version (NRSV)

Then he looked up at his disciples and said:
“Blessed are you who are poor,
for yours is the kingdom of God.

“Blessed are you who are hungry now,
for you will be filled.
“Blessed are you who weep now,
for you will laugh.

“Blessed are you when people hate you, and when they exclude you, revile you, and defame you on account of the Son of Man. Rejoice in that day and leap for joy, for surely your reward is great in heaven; for that is what their ancestors did to the prophets.

“But woe to you who are rich,
for you have received your consolation.

“Woe to you who are full now,
for you will be hungry.
“Woe to you who are laughing now,
for you will mourn and weep.
“Woe to you when all speak well of you, for that is what their ancestors did to the false prophets.

“But I say to you that listen, Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who abuse you. If anyone strikes you on the cheek, offer the other also; and from anyone who takes away your coat do not withhold even your shirt. Give to everyone who begs from you; and if anyone takes away your goods, do not ask for them again. Do to others as you would have them do to you.

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Reflect

Jesus never said being his disciple would be easy. You may not get rich, you may have to watch what you buy at the store, and sometimes you will just find yourself crying from the stress or the situations that arise. You will find yourself not invited. You will find yourself being insulted and rejected. Sometimes people will just see you as being the last person they want around. And yet, as Jesus’ disciple, you will carry on.

You will carry on just like Jesus did. And sometimes the only reward that you receive in your walk in this world is knowing that you simply have the faith to follow and to love. The faith to follow Jesus, the faith to love like Jesus, despite the difficulties that come with living and sharing the truth, the way, and the life. It is often asked, “Is it worth it to be a disciple of Jesus?” The answer for many of us is simply, “Yes.” “Come and follow me,” is what Jesus calls out. Let the answer always be given with a thankful heart, “I am right behind you.”

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Pray

We prayer today God that you will truly help us to be your disciples. Help us to overcome the difficulties that will arise. Give us faith to follow because of the truth we find in you and what that truth can mean in the lives of others. Thank you for sending Jesus, help us to take up our cross and follow him every day. Amen.

Go with God!