The Cost of Following Christ

**A Message on Matthew 8:20: The Cost of Following Christ**

Dear beloved in Christ,

Today, I want to reflect on a profound statement made by our Lord Jesus Christ in Matthew 8:20, where He says, “Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has nowhere to lay His head.” This verse encapsulates the essence of discipleship and the radical call that Jesus issued to those who sought to follow Him.

In this brief encounter, we see Jesus confronted by a scribe—an educated member of the Jewish community who was eager to follow Him. However, Jesus’ response was not one of comfort but of stark reality. He was not merely talking about physical homelessness; instead, He was highlighting the spiritual journey of discipleship that often requires sacrifice and surrender.

### The Call to Discipleship

To follow Christ is to embrace a journey that may lead us into uncertain territories. Our Lord did not promise a life of ease or comfort; rather, He invited us into a relationship that demands our all. Discipleship is not a mere addition to our lives; it is a complete transformation of our priorities, desires, and commitments.

In a world that often values security, status, and stability, Jesus’ words challenge us to reconsider what we truly seek. Are we following Him for the benefits He can provide, or are we willing to embrace the path He walked—one marked by humility, sacrifice, and sometimes suffering? Jesus’ lack of a permanent home serves as a powerful reminder that our ultimate citizenship is not in this world but in the Kingdom of Heaven.

### Understanding the Cost

When we hear Jesus speak of His lack of a place to rest, we must ask ourselves: what are we willing to give up to follow Him? The cost of discipleship can manifest in many ways. It may mean stepping away from a job that no longer aligns with our faith values. It could involve leaving behind relationships that pull us away from Christ. It might even require us to endure criticism or rejection from those who do not understand our commitment to Him.

In Luke 14:27, Jesus further emphasizes this point: “Whoever does not bear his own cross and come after me cannot be my disciple.” Our journey with Christ is not merely about following Him when it is convenient or comfortable. It demands that we take up our cross daily, embracing the challenges and sacrifices that come with it.

### The Hope of His Presence

Yet, amid these challenges, we are not left alone. The beauty of following Christ is that while He may not have a physical place to lay His head, He offers us something far greater: His presence. When we choose to walk with Him, we gain access to the peace, joy, and strength that comes from being in a relationship with the Creator of the universe.

Jesus reassures us in Matthew 11:28–30, inviting us to come to Him when we are weary and burdened. He promises rest for our souls in the midst of the storms of life. His call to discipleship is not simply about what we give up; it is also about what we gain—a deeper understanding of His love, grace, and purpose for our lives.

### A Community of Believers

Furthermore, as we navigate this path of discipleship, we are blessed to be part of a community—the Church. Together, we can support one another, share in each other’s burdens, and encourage one another to remain steadfast in our faith. The early church exemplified this beautifully, gathering together to worship, pray, and serve one another.

As we reflect on Matthew 8:20, let us remember that the journey of following Christ is one we undertake together. We are not alone in our struggles; we have each other to lean on, to share our testimonies, and to celebrate the victories that come when we faithfully follow our Lord.

### Conclusion

In conclusion, the words of Jesus in Matthew 8:20 invite us into a radical discipleship that challenges our understanding of comfort and security. Let us be willing to leave behind the familiar and comfortable, embracing the uncertainty that comes with following Him. As we do so, let us hold fast to the promise of His presence and the hope that He brings.

May we be a church that embodies the spirit of sacrificial love and unwavering faith, encouraging one another to take up our crosses and follow Him wholeheartedly. For in losing our lives for His sake, we will truly find them—an eternal promise that far outweighs any earthly comfort.

Amen.

My name is Cesar and I’m a Voice in the Desert

www.avoiceinthedesert.net