For those in the region when Jesus hit town, things always got interesting; stories of miraculous healings and happenings wafted through the crowds, drawing many to Him. Throngs followed Him, but most didn’t follow long.

Which of you, desiring to build a tower, does not first sit down and count the cost?

Luke 14:28

Those only desiring a quick miracle from Christ were astonished to hear Him say, “If anyone comes to me and does not hate…even his own life, he cannot be my disciple.” (Luke 14:26) What? Christ’s gifts were indeed free and full of compassion, but His offer of eternal life was actually an exchange program! It’s as though He was saying, “Bring in your old, stinky life and I will trade it out for a new, glorious one. But you cannot have both. You must choose.”

If you love the things of this world, God’s love is not with you; the desires of this life will pass away, but His will abides forever. Today, pray for those across America counting the cost to follow Christ. You can be sure the Lord knows their names and that Jesus will bring all those who are willing out of the darkness and into the miraculous light of new life in Him.

Recommended Reading: I John 2:15-25