“Therefore let us go to him outside the camp and bear the reproach he endured. For here we have no lasting city, but we seek the city that is to come.” – Hebrews 13:13-14
Don’t be afraid to be questioned, mocked, humiliated, or abused for following Jesus. Don’t worry about getting tossed out of the “right sort” of groups, jobs, people, and places because Jesus is your Lord. Don’t be afraid to pay the price Jesus paid. Everything we have here on Earth is temporary, but the joy of an eternity with Jesus in the new Jerusalem will last forever!
Jesus Himself was led out of the old Jerusalem to suffer and die. He has invited you to take up your cross and follow Him out of the city where all the “right and proper” people have their power and influence. Follow Jesus out of comfort and ease. Out of popularity and away from earthly power. Follow Him into His power and presence. Into His peace the surpasses all human understanding. Once you actually trade the world for Jesus, you’ll quickly realize it was the best deal of your life!
So, take up your cross, live your faith, and don’t worry about how embarrassing it may be, how foolish it may seem to your friends or family, or how difficult the road ahead may be. As you follow Jesus, know that He is comforting and carrying you, strengthening and sustaining you, loving and encouraging you. The rewards you pile up in heaven for faithful obedience will be eternally satisfying year after year, century after century in God’s presence. Whatever it may cost today, it is completely worth it! #FollowJesus