Count the Cost

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“And anyone who does not carry his cross and follow me cannot be my disciple.”

Luke 14:27

In the early 2000’s my wife and I felt God telling us that we should go to Mozambique and visit a ministry there. At the time we were unsure whether God was calling us to full-time ministry or a short visit. One of the most difficult aspects of the decision to go was trusting God with the well-being of our children. Mozambique was a poor, dangerous country. There was a good chance that our kids might get sick on the trip, they might even die. We wrestled with this for over a year until we came to the place in our hearts and minds, that even if our children were to die, that it was more important to be obedient to God and go.

The phrase “take up your cross” appears in the books of Matthew, Mark, and Luke, more than once. These days its easy to read the verse and only think that Jesus was speaking figuratively. But in the book of Luke, the second time that Jesus uses this phrase, he clarifies what he means by using two other descriptions (Luke 14:28-33). To summarize, Jesus is saying, “If you really want to be my disciple be sure to count the cost.” Have you counted the cost of being a disciple? Are you wiling to give up everything for Jesus? Everything must be laid at the feet of Jesus.

Action

Have you counted the cost of being a disciple? Is there something that Jesus has asked you to do, but because of fear of the cost you have been unwilling to do? Go to Jesus, lay out your concerns before him, and ask for his perspective on your struggle.

Prayer

Jesus, help me to take up my cross and follow you, wherever you lead.

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About the author

Profile photo for John Hall

In 1997 John Hall, his wife Wei, and brother in-law started Eco Outdoor Sports in Metro Vancouver. In 2003 the business was sold, and his family entered a seven-year ‘desert experience’. During that time the Lord impressed on John and his family the importance of hearing and obeying Jesus every day, something that he tries to integrate into everything he does. In 2010 God changed the family’s direction and led him to finish his degree at Regent College in preparation for life as a full-time missionary overseas. That ministry opportunity didn’t develop as planned, as a whole new perspective and participation-in Christ’s mission was born at Missions Fest Vancouver. It’s now a daily occurrence for John’s business background and theological training to get a workout.

John served as the Executive Director at Mission Central (formerly Missions Fest Vancouver) from 2014 to April 2023.

John and Wei live in Richmond, BC. They have two wonderful adult girls. John completed his MA at Regent College in 2010.

Church
Church
The Tapestry Church (Richmond, BC)

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