Following Jesus

A couple of weeks ago I was coaching/mentoring one of the saints working here in the Bronx. As we were talking, we began speaking about Jesus. And then this question came up....

Do we FOLLOW Jesus or do we just ADMIRE Jesus?

I haven't been able to shake it. This question is both disturbing and somehow liberating at the same time. I think the truth is that we often spend a great deal of time admiring Jesus. He's easy to admire. Herod knew of his reputation. Nicodemus secretly appreciated him. The crowds cheered him on until it was time to judge him. Jesus said wonderful things and had courage many of us only dream of. And as a result, we, the church, too often limit our conversations to guys like Peter or Paul. We can relate to them, and we don't mind following them. Yet, they only represent courage and conviction because of their encounter with Jesus.

Jesus said, "Follow me." A disciple is an apprentice. In other words, we are learning from and imitating Jesus. He is our model in everyway. Many of us don't think that way. We think of Jesus as our savior, but not as a model for how to live. He's too radical! Too extreme!

He moved (moves) contrary to religious structures that wrap us in false security. He calls us to abundant life, and we must die to ourselves to experience it. He gives us authority, and calls us to obey. He offers true freedom, and shows us the road less traveled to possess it. It seems easier to just admire Jesus. We feel more in control; we take less risks. Yet, in doing so, we are shrinking away from the Resurrection and the Life. We are sidelining true Reality and settling for so much less.

Do I follow Jesus or just admire him? I can't stop thinking about it.

Pray for us.
JESUS is really the only hope for the city. Nothing else.