Jesus doesn’t promise us earthly success. He doesn’t promise your best life now. Does he promise blessings? Absolutely. Does he fill us with his Spirit? Most certainly. Does he guide, lead and protect? Everyday. Does he do more than we could ask or imagine? Without a doubt. But he also calls us to sacrifice, surrender, suffering and submission.

Jesus tells us there are three things we must do to “come after him” – to be his disciple.  You must deny yourself, take up your cross, and follow him.