Taking up the cross... What Tension

How do we deal with Jesus teaching on what is required to be his disciple?

Especially when he says things like:  

• hate your father, mother, brother, sister, and even life itself (Luke 14:26) 
• Sell all your possessions and give everything to the poor (Luke 18:22; 14:33)
• deny oneself and take up your cross and follow me (Luke 14:27)

And Jesus told the crowds if they did not do these then they could not be his disciples.  If that is true I am not sure I could be one either. This question of the cost of discipleship has tension in my life as a modern day pilgrim and follower of Jesus.  I count myself as a group who has for years called themselves disciples.

I have always believed there are some costs and difficult requirements.  And I think all Christians should count the cost of discipleship.  The cost of discipleship is something we have to consider if we are going to follow Jesus.  Who meets Jesus high requirements beyond those disciples in the bible?  

Most of the time, when we talk about modern examples of person who meet these requirements we think of martyrs.  A couple of persons who I think of that have given it all away and followed Jesus are Mother Teresa and Dietrich Bonhoeffer.  

Here is where the tension comes.    

Let me be frank, when I hear those names and read of their journey as a disciple, I am in awe.  I could only wish I was that brave.  I was living as humble and selfless life as Mother Teresa or as bravely as Dietrich Bonhoeffer.  I know that I don't measure up.  

When I look at other stories in the bible and I find Jesus praising others who never gave everything up or gave up their life for him.  Read the story of Zacchacus (Luke 19:1-10) or the Roman Centurion in Matthew 8:5-13.  Jesus tells the Roman that he has shown greater faith than all of Israel.  And Zacchacus is praised for his radical change in life, but neither would they are no mother Teresa or Bonhoeffer.  

So which is better?  Which one is a real disciple?  Does one of sacrifice or way of life make one better more a disciple?  What is the cost of discipleship today?  

In taking up my cross in today world mean that I must give everything away or give up my life?Do I have to sell my house and car?    Or can I just be a strong person of faith.  A person who goes to church, gives to the poor, and shares the message of Jesus love.  I can do that?  Can I play it safe? 

Believe me I want to take care of my children and my wife.  If I get to choose I want to be one the great people of faith Jesus highlights, but who didn't have to give everything away.

What is the cost of Discipleship?  I think it can cost you all you have and even life itself.  But then what am I suppose to do to be Jesus Disciple?  

I wonder if the better question, what will it feel like to hear the words, "Well done my good and faithful servant?" We all will have to account for our lives one day.  What will it feel like to hear the words, "well done my good and faithful servant.