The big picture

‘Those who love their father or mother more than me are not fit to be my disciples; those who love their son or daughter more than me are not fit to be my disciples. Those who do not take up their cross and follow in my steps are not fit to be my disciples. Those who try to gain their own life will lose it; but those who lose their life for my sake will gain it.’ (verses 37-39)

Read Matthew 10:34-42

What Jesus says here seems full of contradictions. We are to love our parents and children but not more than we love Jesus. We have been set free from the chains of sin but are to take up our cross and follow Jesus. We have eternal life but might lose our earthly life for Jesus.

Sometimes we find it hard to see the big picture. We can use all sorts of excuses for not following God’s calling in our life: my family comes first, I come first, my life comes first. But Jesus says very clearly that he has to come first.

He wants us to have a realistic understanding of our situation. We can’t expect a carefree life with no troubles. Jesus had a cross to bear and he says that we will have our crosses to bear, too. He tells us not to look at the world and its version of peace but to look for the peace that is beyond our understanding. Instead of looking at what the world says is precious we need to hold on to God’s promise of a treasure that is eternal.

You have your earthly family, but Jesus’ family is the church, the kingdom of heaven, and we will all live there in peace forever. You still have your life here on earth, but you look forward your everlasting life with Jesus.

Father, when my priorities are confused, show me the big picture. Give me strength to take up my cross and follow you. Amen.

by Janet Eiby, in ‘Refreshment for each Day’ (LCA, Openbook, 2003)

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