In considering what follows life we need to consider what or who we are following and how focused we are on that following. Some followings gain the interest for a while, but then the interest diminishes and is lost. Even as people were being drawn to Jesus, we find a time came when many of His disciples turned back and no longer walked with Him. (John 6:66) In view of this we read. . .
“(67) So Jesus said to the twelve, “Do you want to go away as well?” (68) Simon Peter answered him, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life, (69) and we have believed, and have come to know, that you are the Holy One of God.”” (John 6:67-69 ESV)
Peter’s words implied he saw no other direction to turn than to Jesus. That was his resolve. That is a resolve to follow; to follow Peter’s example to continue following Jesus regardless of what others might do.
In interacting with some regarding following Him and the willingness to accept the cost of doing so (Luke 9:57-62), we need to consider Jesus’ response to one individual where we read. . .
“(62) Jesus said to him, “No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for the kingdom of God.”” (Luke 9:62 ESV)
Following Jesus is not about looking back but continuing to look ahead to where He is ultimately leading. (i.e. Philippians 3:13-14) Following Jesus is not about turning back, but about continually turning to Him as our sole means of eternal life. (i.e. John 14:6; Acts 4:12) Following Jesus is a decision to make and continue making as we journey on in life. As the first two verses of the hymn “I Have Decided to Follow Jesus” urge: “No turning back, no turning back”! Then the third verse of that hymn ends with “No turning back, I’ll follow Him”. May that remain our resolve!
Have a great day DECIDEDLY A DISCIPLE OF JESUS!
Carl
