Dear Church Family,

In one of my devotionals, I came across the following statement; “The reason some people do not recognize opportunity when they meet it is because it usually comes disguised as hard work.”  

While the author is unknown, any Christ follower coming across the phrase could well be convicted.  Sadly, most of us are guilty of assuming that the true cost of following Christ will be minimal but consider Jesus's words in Mark’s Gospel:

Mark 8:34-38   And he called to him the crowd with his disciples and said to them, "If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.  35 For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake and the gospel's will save it.  36  For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his life?  37 For what can a man give in return for his life?  38 For whoever is ashamed of me and of my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, of him will the Son of Man also be ashamed when he comes in the glory of his Father with the holy angels."    ESV

While the price of our salvation was fully paid by Jesus on the cross of Calvary, our response to this Amazing Grace must be a life of full dedication. Simply put, Jesus is worthy of our very best effort.  Of anything in our lives that should get every ounce of our effort, the pursuit of Jesus stands high above them all.

In his letter to the Colossians, Paul states:  

Col 3:23-24 Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, 24 knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ. ESV

This is simple advice, yet all-encompassing. May we all take time to reflect and consider our willingness to accept opportunities that God brings our way.  Let’s not be hindered or intimidated in our response because of the possible effort needed, but be willing to receive the Holy Spirit’s divine enablement to meet the challenges of His service. 

Loving you all, 

Michael