Daily Devotional for July 20, 2022

Last Sunday, during the sermon, I spoke about when I was a young lieutenant in the army and how a new soldier in my platoon looked very confused.  We were in the motor pool working on tanks.  He walked up and said, “Sir, where are the sailboats?”
 
I said, “What are you talking about?  We are in the middle of Kentucky.  There aren’t any sailboats here?”
 
He responded, “In order to get me to enlist in the army, my recruiter promised I would get to sail sailboats.”
 
I said, “Your recruiter lied.”
 
I could see it register on this young man’s face he had been misled.
 
While recruiters may take liberties with the truth to get someone to enlist in the military, Jesus was very clear about the cost of becoming a Christian.
 
He said, “If any wish to come after me, let them deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.  For those who want to save their life will lose it, and those who lose their life for my sake will save it.”  (Luke 9:23-24)
 
With Jesus there was no ambiguity, confusion, or smoke.  When you enlist as a follower of Christ it costs your life.  It is worth every second.
 
In following Jesus’ call, you may face rejection, ridicule, or worse.  Just know the cost is momentary but the reward is eternal.
 
If you are not currently a follower of Christ, I hope you become one.  While you will pay a cost, the true price was paid two thousand years ago on a Friday afternoon.  That part is free.  It’s God’s gift to you.
 
Sign up and let the true adventure begin.
 
Prayer:  Dear Gracious Heavenly God, help me always be faithful to you.  In those moments when I am tempted to turn away, remind me of your infinite love and grace.  In Jesus’ name I pray.  Amen.
 
Sunday, as Carl and Sam played the postlude, I walked back up the aisle in the sanctuary.  On the very last row was Brett.  He motioned me over and whispered, “I was a recruiter.” 
 
I responded, “Did you use the sailboat thing?”
 
He said, “I can neither confirm nor deny.”
 
I pray your day is filled with joy and laughter.
Tom Robbins