Miracles and Mysteries: Matthew 8-13Sample

What does it really mean to follow Jesus? Is it about just having a belief? Is it about living a morally good life? Is following Jesus about having a convenient emergency exit for when things in life get tricky? Or does it fundamentally change everything about the way we live?

Two men approach Jesus, eager to follow Him. The first is ready to go anywhere, but Jesus warns him—there’s no security or comfortable home in this journey. The second wants to follow, but later, after family obligations. Jesus’ response is striking: “Follow me, and let the dead bury their own dead.” It sounds harsh, but Jesus is making a point—following Him must come before everything else.

Jesus isn’t looking for half-hearted disciples. He calls for total devotion, even when it costs.

Today, ponder this: Are there things in your life that hold you back from fully following Him? The cost of following Jesus is high, but Jesus paid the ultimate price when He set aside His own life for our sake on the cross.