The term “cost” appears only once in the New Testament, and it is in the fourteenth chapter of the Gospel of Luke. According to our contemporary dictionary, “cost,” is “the amount paid for something,” or “the outlay or expenditure (as of effort or sacrifice) made to achieve an object.”
Jesus says something very interesting about the word “cost” in this fourteenth chapter of Luke. Essentially, he says that if anyone among us is considering building a house, it is very likely that she or he would sit down and consider what the house is going to cost before contacting a builder. And the reason is that it would be embarrassing to start such a project and not be able to finish it. He says all this to get his listeners to consider the cost of discipleship. In other words, Jesus is telling us that we should think about it long and hard before we say we will follow him.
Funny, we don’t hear too much talk of that these days. And the thing is, Jesus says more alarming things than this. He says that part of the cost of following him is the ability and willingness to “hate” (NRSV) or “let go of” (The Message) our closest family members.
We live in a culture that sustains a ubiquitous message to us that we can have it all. That message is alluring, and hypnotic and I must admit I fall prey to it most every day. Even when it comes to spiritual things – I want Jesus to be my friend, savior, and confidant. There are not many days during which I ask Jesus to challenge and chastise me or separate me from the things I need and want. But the message in Luke 14 is clear; there is a cost that comes with living a good life.
If that sets you thinking – like it did me – then come on down to worship this Sunday. Perhaps together, we can figure out how to ante up and put a value on what it means to be disciples of Christ, right here on the corner of Church and Main.
P.S. – On September 21st we will conclude our “Living Our Faith” series in Sunday worship, followed by a church-wide meal. There is no cost for the meal. Please use the enclosed reservation card to RSVP. Or you can certainly call the church office (753-3179) or email us at office@fccfarmville.org. Thank you!