Jesus Christ’s popularity was growing, evidenced by a great following. Yet, it didn’t matter to Christ; rather, he said these words to them: “If anyone comes to me and does not hate his own father and mother and wife and children and brothers and sisters…he cannot be my disciple” (Lk 14:26) For sure, this is not the best way to preserve followers. However, this is important as it would surely filter those who truly prioritize Christ.
Some would be confused with the criteria to follow Him. Was Jesus violating the 5th commandment to honor mothers and fathers? Obviously, we know the answer: Christ is not breaking any of God’s laws. How do we know that? Because we know that Christ came to fulfill the Law and not to abolish it. Marriage is also important as it is instituted by God. And to be honest, family is the greatest blessing we could ever have in this lifetime.
So, what is Christ trying to do here? Christ was challenging the crowd in the most extreme way. Up to what extent would they prioritize Him? Because family relationships are indeed blessings, but they can also be a spiritual temptation to prioritize them over the Lord.
Most of us would spend our Sundays with our families. Most would not even go to church because they call it their family day. They spend their time, effort, and money on vacation spots. But ask yourself this: do you give the same amount of time, effort, and even money on the Lord’s work?
Don’t get me wrong, I understand that family is important. But if you sacrifice your Sunday, which is the Lord’s Day, for your own family gathering, no matter how frequent that is, then that needs to be re-evaluated and adjusted. I don’t want us to suddenly judge one another, but what do you look forward most during weekends?
Others have valid reasons like a loved-one died, or having to take care of a sick family member, or unforeseen events like being trapped inside your own house or something. But if your reason for missing the Lord’s day is because you’ll attend a political rally, or there’s a school event, and you’ll just attend an online church service, then reflect on your actions and decisions. For it shows what truly matters to you.
We value our loved ones and we would always do our best for them, but if the time comes that they would not agree with your decision to follow Christ, what will you choose? If your biblical values are being tried by your very own family, would you compromise your relationship with God?
Following Christ is not an add-on on the things you do. It demands that this is your priority, and other things will adjust. Make Jesus take the sole priority of your life. Proclaim Him to your family, and encourage them to submit to Him also. This is the demand of following Christ.
