Giving Jesus a Try

“I tried Jesus,” Tashia said.

I was concerned. She seems nearly devoid of any spiritual life. She confirmed my inkling: “It didn’t work out.” And Tashia, my cousin, whose sons are like my sons, wasn’t giving much gusto to her commitment.

Not all her fault. She had been enticed to follow Jesus with skewed expectations. Near-instant upswings in her life situations were assured. So, when life continued to be challenging, she bailed on Jesus.

Many preachers lay out the peace-prosperity-happiness scenario in presenting the Christian faith. But listen to Jesus:

“You will be hated by all because of My name.”

“Do not think that I came to bring peace on the earth; I did not come to bring peace, but a sword.”

“A man’s enemies will be the members of his household.”

“If anyone wishes to come after Me, he must deny himself, and take up his cross …”

“If they persecuted Me, they will also persecute you”

Ouch! Does this sound like Good News? Does this sound like an effective rallying call to a lifetime Jesus-commitment?

Jesus never preached, “Let the good times roll.” He preached, “Repent for the kingdom of God is near.”

Hated, peace-less-ness, enemies, deny yourself, persecuted, repent. Raise your hand if this is what you desire.

The Jesus-life has two edges. Yes, there will be joyous times—lots of them. But be prepared for the cross-cutting of life-challenges. Be prepared; these could surpass those of your pre-Christian years. Jesus wants followers who are totally committed to trusting in Him—bold, faith-filled, enduring commitments.

Jesus said: “In this world you will have trouble.” That’s a promise. Then Jesus added, “But take heart! I have overcome the world.” When we follow in His footsteps, we experience troubles. And as we continue the journey, we overcome.

That’s a promise.