Stewardship Corner—Being a disciple

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In order to be his disciple, we must follow Jesus. In addition to following him, Jesus informed his disciples that there are other requirements to being a disciple. In Mark 8:34 we read, “Then he called the crowd to him along with his disciples and said: ‘If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.’ ”

When we don’t turn away from Jesus’ call to be his disciples, we understand what John the Baptist said, “He must increase; I must decrease” (John 3:30). By teaching us that we must deny ourselves, Jesus has prepared us to carry our crosses. Knowing only the Christ, we are unaware of the burdens of our crosses; we view our lives as disciples with joy. Disciples keep their eyes on Christ, without thinking of themselves, and “consider it pure joy . . .” (James 1:2) to face trials and testing of their faith.

Prayer: Lord, place in me a heart that seeks the lost. I pray for guidance, wisdom, and courage as I share your love with others. I thank you for the privilege of being your instrument to tell others about the life-saving Gospel.  In your name I pray. Amen

Blessings on your stewardship journey!