Saint Athanasius Lutheran Church

Today, I reflected on Jesus’ hard words about hating family, bearing the cross, and renouncing all we have. At first, they sound impossible—almost like disqualifications for discipleship. But Jesus isn’t telling us how to earn salvation; He’s warning us not to let anything stand in the way of following Him. Like those in His parable who made excuses about property and family, we too can let “later” become never. Yet Jesus counted the cost and bore the cross for us, securing our life with Him. So He calls us to keep the end in mind—eternal life with Him—and live wisely now. In Word, Baptism, and the Lord’s Supper, He strengthens us to bear our crosses, trust His promises, and follow Him all the way home.