Reading: Mark 10:32-34
We observe two key responses of those who were following Christ on His journey to Jerusalem. First, we note the astonishment of the disciples. Their astonishment was partially that Jesus would willingly go to Jerusalem where those who sought His execution were. Jesus did not simply go willingly, however. He went boldly, walking ahead of his disciples. He was not only willing to go, but He was motivated to go and redeem us.
The second response we observe is fear. This fear, however, does not seem to deter these people (the disciples and “those who followed him”). They follow Jesus knowing that He expects to die. They also follow with the full realization that they could be taken with Him and die. Apparently these people make the conscious decision to continue to follow Christ regardless of the danger and in spite of their fear.
Following Christ is not just a matter of physical courage, although in many parts of the world that is essential. Following Christ is also a matter of moral courage. It takes moral courage to live contrary to the culture of today. It takes moral courage to call sin what it is and to call people to turn away from their sin and turn to Christ. Yet this is exactly what we are supposed to do. We do not win people to Christ by trying to minimize the severity of sin. Sin has grave, eternal consequences. And we must warn people, whether they like it or not.
Prayer Prompt:
Ask God to give you strength and boldness to share His love with others today. Confess your fears, turn them over to Him, and decide to continue forward with Christ.
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