We All Want the Crown, Few Want the Cross

I was having a very interesting discussion the other day with someone who has been wrestling between the desires of this world and the call to follow Christ. After discussing it for some time I finally stated to the person, “so you want the glory of Heaven and the promises of Jesus, but you don’t want to follow Him now if it costs you anything.” They agreed (at least they were honest) and I have been pondering it ever since. It was one of those “lightbulb” moments where some mystery suddenly became very clear.

“Then Jesus told his disciples, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.” ~Matthew 16:24

At this point we may suddenly look to those who do not even claim to follow Jesus, but that is not who I have in mind. We know there are huge…