Dear Disciple,
“Why do you call me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ and do not do what I say? As for everyone who comes to me and hears my words and puts them into practice, I will show you what they are like. They are like a man building a house, who dug down deep and laid the foundation on rock. When a flood came, the torrent struck that house but could not shake it, because it was well built. But the one who hears my words and does not put them into practice is like a man who built a house on the ground without a foundation. The moment the torrent struck that house, it collapsed and its destruction was complete.” Luke 6:46-49
When you made the decision to commit your life to the man Jesus, you acknowledged your place as a subject of His kingdom. He is the One chosen by Father to receive all authority in heaven and earth (Matthew 28:18). He is the Lamb who shares the throne of God and receives the worship of all creation (see Revelation 5). He is the triumphant hero of the universal story.
When Jesus issued His commands, He did so out of more than just authority. He commanded His people out of wisdom and a perfect understanding of the world He partnered with Father to create. You are in a covenant relationship with the most brilliant person there is. When He told us to do what seems impossible, He did so because He knows that being forgiving, praying for enemies, be generous when wronged, blessing when cursing, and doing it all without seeking immediate reward, is the most fitting way to live in God’s world.
The life built on the unshakeable truth of who Jesus is and what He has taught us is itself unshakeable. The one who trusts in Jesus’ way to be right (even when it hurts) is the one who can expect Him to be present with them no matter what comes. Whether we face the attacks of our Enemy, the difficult circumstances of life, or the ultimate judgment of God, we have confidence that our Master will not leave or forsake us. He will shelter and defend us. We are His beloved and the delight of His heart.
When you obey Jesus, Disciple, you are proving that you love Him (see John 14:23-24). You are returning His unwavering and generous love with the adoration and honor He deserves. Your obedience is your worship. It is your living sacrifice. There is nothing cold or legalistic about true obedience. It is the most heartfelt life that can be lived. After all, so much of the time we obey simply because we trust that He must be right. We often don’t understand or even agree with our Master, but we can choose to obey because in Him “are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge” (Colossians 2:3).
Whatever you face today, Disciple, choose to obey the lover of your soul. Choose to trust His understanding of your life, your world, and your truest needs. You are in good hands with Him. He will only call you to do what is best and liberating. May your obedience bring joy to our Master, to you, and to all whom it touches today!
Joining you in loving as He loved by obeying as He obeyed,
Ryan
