1. Love Jesus, take up your cross (32-39)

People thought the Messiah would bring peace. He did in a spiritual sense (11:28), but humanly faith in Jesus often causes division, even in a family. If we love a parent or child more than Jesus we are not worthy of him. To be worthy of Jesus, we must take up our cross (die to ourself) and follow Jesus. Those who try to find (or save) their life in this world will lose it. But those who lose their life for Jesus' sake will find (save) it. This is the way of true blessing.

2. The reward of welcoming Jesus (40-42)

Whoever welcomes Jesus welcomes God and will be blessed, because Jesus is more than a prophet and righteous man. Whoever welcomes a disciple of Jesus, will be rewarded as well.


Application: Lord Jesus, may I not try to save my life, but die to my self and follow you, for you are the way to true life.
One Word: Take up my cross and follow Jesus; that's the way to true life!