Glorious Gains

Day 90: Luke 9:7-27

"For what does it profit a man if he gains the whole world and loses or forfeits himself?" - Luke 9:25 ESV

Jesus just clearly disclosed his impending death and resurrection to the disciples. He was also clear that they would need to be willing to suffer the same fate. Their definition of a gain and a loss wasn't in line with how Jesus thought about the terms.

Jesus knew that the only way for this world could be saved was through His sacrifice on the cross and His subsequent resurrection. The disciples (and all of Israel) were thinking too small. They believed that salvation would only come through a divinely ordained conquest of their political oppressors (Rome). Jesus was aiming for the salvation of all nations.

What would you be willing to sacrifice for guaranteed gains in this life? Would you be willing to ignore your family for a season? Would you be willing to tell a small lie to make an advancement in school or at work? Would you be willing to use someone as a prop to get where you want to be?

Jesus is trying to tell us that the gains of this world aren't really gaining at all. They can actually lead to eternal losses.

I pray that we wouldn't settle for the fading glory of this world. Instead, may we seek to join Jesus in taking up our crosses and following Him.

"One marvels how Jesus could make such uncompromising demands for first place in everyone’s life and yet maintain the image of the ideal in humility and service. His deity shows through when He, in an unassuming and natural way, commands complete commitment and at the same time tells of His willingness to give His life in sacrifice for others." - Foster, L. (1986). Luke: Unlocking the Scriptures for You (p. 151)