Today”™s headlines could have been used by Jesus in a parable”¦an example of what happens when people do not wisely consider the cost.

Many people bought homes without considering the cost after that very appealing initial mortgage rate ended. They may not have asked the “˜What if”¦”™ questions of themselves in order to meet their financial obligations in the future.

What did Jesus have to say?

(NASB) Luke 14:28-30 “For which one of you, when he wants to build a tower, does not first sit down and calculate the cost to see if he has enough to complete it?

29 “˜Otherwise, when he has laid a foundation and is not able to finish, all who observe it begin to ridicule him,

30 saying, “˜This man began to build and was not able to finish.”™”

Following Christ as His disciple is not a walk in the park or free from problems.

To follow Christ is to do it wholeheartedly and for life.

Jesus has expectations for His followers and He said:

(NASB) John 12:26 “If anyone serves Me, he must follow Me; and where I am, there My servant will be also; if anyone serves Me, the Father will honor him.”

What is some of my understanding in following Christ?

There is no other who promises me that:

My sins are forgiven (only through Christ is this possible)

My life is of value to God (only through Christ is this possible)

I am loved by God (and that only through His Son, Jesus Christ)

There is no one or any one thing where I can turn and be given life other than Jesus the Christ.

I will be honored by God the Father when I serve Jesus according to His expectations

To follow Christ is to do it wholeheartedly and for life.