In preparing some thoughts for tomorrow morning and a series for our 18-25 age group class I have just read something that I have read often but have not written about. That being the words, “But first let me…”
Those words would most likely indicate that a preceding request has been made.
In this specific case, the person making the request was Christ and his words were, “Follow me.”
It was after that in the ninth chapter of Luke that various people gave different responses.
One said, “But first let me go and bury my father.”
Another said, “But first let me go back and say good-bye to my family.”
Both answers legitimate and both answers gave reasons as to why a commitment could not be made at that moment.
Here’s an exercise.
Take a piece of paper and a red and blue pen.
At the top of the paper write in the center of the page in red ink the words, “Follow me.”
Then in blue ink write out the words, “But first let me…”
Then below that list out all the reasons that makes it challenging for you to fully follow Christ. Don’t make a list of phony, concocted reasons that sound religious.
Be real and bluntly honest with yourself. No one will see it but God.
Then study those reasons. Are they valid? Are they truly what keeps you from following Christ with your whole heart and life?
Just a thought.
JHH
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