Read Mark 8:34-9:1
Do you think the crowds showing up to see Jesus wondered how they could become followers like the chosen twelve? Jesus’ magnetic character automatically drew people to him. I’m guessing many of those people wanted more. We often find ourselves wanting more, too.
In this passage, Jesus lets us all know how we can be his followers. Jesus told them, “you must give up your own way, take up your cross, and follow me.” Would that statement have made sense to those hungry for more? Does it make sense to you?
There are three parts to this call to discipleship. Actually, the first two simply define what needs to happen before we can truly follow Jesus. Many have a hard time with giving up their own way. In other translations, we see this defined as “denying self” or “setting aside selfish ambition.” In what ways do you forge forward in life letting your selfish desires lead the way? You might need to wrestle with this question a bit. Jesus wants us to follow “him,” not our own whims.
Next, Jesus told them to take up their cross. What does that even mean? For people hearing Jesus, they would be familiar with the torture and death sentence on a cross called crucifixion. When we hear about crosses today, we think of the symbol for the Christian church. Many of us even wear crosses around our neck.
The cross doesn’t refer to our burdens or struggles we face in life. Rather, Jesus wants us to be ready to sacrifice ourselves for the good of others. I always think of seeing the world through God’s eyes to see the needs of other people. We can ask, “what can I do to help them,” and be ready to sacrifice your time or pocketbook.
Following Jesus can be costly. But consider what Jesus has done for you before ruling out being a true follower. How can we respond to such grace and love? Doesn’t that make it easier to set aside our own selfish ambition and be ready to sacrifice ourselves for others?
When we do those things, we become a lot more like Jesus than before. As Christians, or followers of Christ, we are Jesus’ ambassadors walking around this world. We should want to represent him in the best way possible. Jesus tells us how in this passage.
Jesus’ bold statement closes out this interchange with the people. “I tell you the truth, some standing here right now will not die before they see the Kingdom of God arrive in great power!” We may think that means Jesus’ promised return. It could also mean the coming of the Holy Spirit or even what we’ll read about in the next passage.
Take some time to wrestle with Jesus’ teaching about discipleship. How good are you at following Jesus? In what ways can you improve based on these guidelines?
Let’s pray. Thank you, Jesus, for making it clear what being your follower looks like. Help me to be less selfish and more tuned in to helping others. Open my eyes and show me how I can serve you and your kingdom. It is such an honor to be your follower. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
