profit? Lent 2-26-16

So many people trade meaning in their lives for something that seems good, but isn’t.

Obeying the call of God is what genuinely gives us fulfillment. Then we know we are living out our purpose. 

Like most aspects of following Christ, it requires a set of values that are counter intuitive and counter cultural. This is what Jesus was trying to teach in his last days.

“If any of you wants to be my follower, you must turn from your selfish ways, take up your cross, and follow me. 35 If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake and for the sake of the Good News, you will save it. 36 And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul? 37 Is anything worth more than your soul? Mark 8:34-37 (NLT)

When Jesus spoke these words, slavery was the predominant condition of many people. They had no choice to do anything with their lives. I think it would be most depressing to be a slave back in those days.

Now consider how many people who feel depressed about their lives, yet have complete freedom of choice. Being “free” does not make us fully happy.

Following Jesus at the level of self sacrifice is the key to fully becoming the real you. Check out The Message translation of this passage:

Calling the crowd to join his disciples, he said, “Anyone who intends to come with me has to let me lead. You’re not in the driver’s seat; I am. Don’t run from suffering; embrace it. Follow me and I’ll show you how. Self-help is no help at all. Self-sacrifice is the way, my way, to saving yourself, your true self. What good would it do to get everything you want and lose you, the real you? What could you ever trade your soul for? Mark 8:34-37

My friend, don’t sell your soul for trinkets. Hear the words of the savior. Follow Him. Serve Him wholeheartedly. Then you will truly succeed.