Daring to Believe

Free Meal and an Empty Soul

“Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ.” – 1 Corinthians 11:1

A friend of mine let me borrow a book today called not a fan. The subtitle reads “BECOMING A COMPLETELY COMMITTED FOLLOWER OF JESUS”. This book, as the subtitle plainly states, is about being a devoted follower of Christ. In the introduction the author is sitting in his church preparing a sermon for Easter Sunday. He was a dilemma. He doesn’t know what to preach about to keep people coming back to church.

He realizes Christ doesn’t sugar coat following him. In John he feeds the 5,000 and they set up tent to be with him the next day. The “followers” wake up to find that Jesus is already away from the camp on the other side of the river. The men and women rush to him asking for more food because they are hungry. 

“When the people found Jesus, He told them that they didn't look for him because of the miracle they had just experienced. They came looking for Him because they wanted some more food. Then he told them not to labor for the meat that perishes but for the meat which would give them everlasting life. Jesus said that he would give to them.” –John 6: 26-27

The people flocked to Jesus because they were fans. They were not his followers. The people liked Jesus for his miracles, not his true purpose on this earth.  It’s like me watching Chris Angel perform all of his “magical” stunts. Yeah, they’re pretty cool but I wouldn’t follow him to the ends of the earth to be with him. That is exactly the type of attitude we have towards following Jesus! I’m not saying I’m the perfect Christian. I have yet to find someone who is perfect, besides Christ. But we have to rise above what people say and follow Him no matter what!

“So whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” – 1 Corinthians 10:31

I was a fan before this blog. I NEVER read my bible. I NEVER spread the word. I NEVER read books on how to live a Christian life. NOTHING.I was involved in my youth group and went through the motions.  I was part of a basketball team and I quite frankly never played. I needed another hobby another something I could do with all the spare time I would have. I am a good writer and mom suggested a blog about Christian living. Since the blog was created, I have read my bible more, prayed more, and read more on what being a Christian is. This blog has brought me closer to God. I’m not saying I’m totally fine now and have no troubles. If I said that I’d be lying. But I can tell you that I am no longer a fan that I am working every day to become a follower. Thank God that I have the opportunity of a second chance.

Everyone likes a free meal. Some take the free meal and then happily follow him and never hunger again. Their souls are full forever. And some of us take the free meal and our souls are left empty.

“Then Jesus declared, ‘I am the bread of life. He who comes to me will never go hungry, and he who believes in me will never be thirsty’” –John 6:35

Most of us go through life being a fan of Christ. However, I can guaranty you that being a follower is much more fulfilling.