Good morning,

When I played football in grade and high school, we had one overarching goal: to reach the end zone whenever we were on offense. In biblical terms, we were taught to be steadfast in our pursuit of this goal and to keep our eyes on the prize.

Jesus was steadfast in pursuing the singular goal or purpose for which He came during His first visit to Earth. In Luke 9, we find an account of Jesus being rejected by an entire Samaritan village. Did this rejection cause Him to give up? Did it divert Him from His goal or purpose? Not at all. In fact, at the end of verse 51, we learn that “He set His face to go to Jerusalem.”

As you continue to read Luke 9, you will see that Jesus told those following Him—and those who would consider following Him in the future—that there is a cost involved (verses 57-62). Let me ask you: Have you considered the cost? This has nothing to do with your salvation but everything to do with discipleship. Have you grown weary of the cost involved? Remember, Jesus Himself said, “Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has nowhere to lay His head.” And yet, He calls us to follow Him!

The path of discipleship is challenging, but I want to emphasize that the journey will be worth it. I look forward to hearing one day, “Well done, my good and faithful servant.”

Blessings on your journey,

Gene