The popular approach to life is simple. Might makes right. The strong survive. The good are rewarded. Jesus promoted a way of life that is completely different, a way of life that is often unpopular. Thankfully, Jesus was interested in saving souls, not winning polls. This week Jesus urges us to count the cost. He wants us to know going in that being his disciple might come at great personal expense. Certain relationships, possessions, and ambitions might be incompatible with our life as Jesus' disciples. However, part of counting the cost is also realizing all that we gain. When we accurately assess everything we receive as Jesus' disciples, everything else appears worthless by comparison.