The “Now” Generation – Surrendering To Christ
Today’s Word is so important in this day and age. We live in the “now” generation where we get instant gratification through the internet and technology. We get next day or two day delivery. If we have a question for someone, we just text them on our phones. Because everything is delivered so quickly, we don’t have to wait for anything. Over time our gratification is becoming diminished because we get so much now and free. And as a result we have very little patience.
Scripture:
“Then he called the crowd to him along with his disciples and said: ‘Whoever wants to be my disciple, must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me’.” – Mark 8:34
Observation/Application:
While the internet and technology can be such a blessing and an instrument for good, it also has adverse effects. I do a lot of work with youth and one of the negative effects is that we are losing a sense of service to the greater good to our teams, and to our communities. This instant gratification is programming us into selfishness. Parents, leaders in the workplace, and leaders in our churches, are being asked to justify any and every request to those under their authority by first answering the question, “what’s in this for me”? And while this is a good practice for leaders, it should not be a prerequisite. How critical it is for leaders to surround ourselves with others who are grounded in good values and who truly understand and appreciate what it means to be a member of a team.
In today’s scripture, Jesus breaks it down plain and simple for us. For people to be part of his team, they must deny themselves and follow him. Jesus expects a life of service from us. Instead of asking what is in this for me, we must submit to His authority and learn from Him. Jesus knows that it is essential to expect more form others, especially when the prize is the kingdom and eternal life. He led the people with purpose, clear vision, competence, compassion, and unwavering resolve. Leaders today would do well to model themselves after Jesus. Church leaders today would do well to model Jesus leadership in this way. Be more. Do more. Expect more from those who God has placed within our authority. The kingdom is at hand.
#Expecting-Service-Patience-Surrender-And-Modeling-Leadership-Authority-Of-Jesus
Prayer:
Dear heavenly Father, thank you for giving your Son to serve as a role model of how we should live our lives, and for the forgiveness of our sins. Our hope is in You. Our trust is in You. Our faith is in You. We give ourselves fully to You Lord. Fill our hearts and minds with your goodness and mercy. We thank you for all that you have done, and all that you are doing now and in the future on our behalf Lord. We are so grateful and humbled by your grace. We give you all the honor and glory and praise in Jesus mighty name. Amen.
Today’s full reading: Numbers 28,29; Mark 8
Image courtesy of: slashvee
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