The Cost of Being a Disciple of Christ
Luke 14:25-27, Now great multitudes went with Him. And He turned and said to them, 26 “If anyone comes to Me and does not hate his father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters, yes, and his own life also, he cannot be My disciple. 27 And whoever does not bear his cross and come after Me cannot be My disciple.
Multitudes wanted to hang around Jesus, but not truly follow Him. Being a true disciple of Christ is something altogether different.
Do not misunderstand the word "hate" in this Scripture text. The idea here is about priority, not neglect. Two things can be true: You can deeply love and always provide for your family, being present as much as humanly possible, and still put Jesus first. Remember that while Jesus hung on the cross suffering for our sins and preparing to die, He still had the presence of mind to tell John to take care of His mother.
Everyone decides what is priority in their lives. For many, Jesus, as well as things and people related to Christ, is not at the top of their priorities. Church attendance alone has nothing to do with being a disciple of Christ.
Never apologize for maintaining your priorities as a disciple of Christ. You may be misunderstood and even rejected, but your actual deeds will always speak louder than what people think or say.
Always rest in what God knows.
