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Luke:9:51-56

Growing Up

The largest oak tree started as a seed which, once planted, needs the right care to grow as a seedling. Then it needs to be protected from being eaten or trampled. It may need staking until it has established a root system so that it can’t be blown over. In time it will grow large enough to withstand the strongest winds and the driest weather.

Christ was determined to go to Jerusalem where he knew he would suffer, be rejected, betrayed, killed and rise again from the dead. He did this so that he could plant himself into our hearts and grow our lives into a large oak tree.

His determination meant that he gave up what we think is an ordinary life. He left his family, friends and home behind to fulfil God’s calling. He endured the disciples’ slowness to understand what he was trying to achieve. He endured opposition from the religious leaders who hated him and organised his death on the cross.

When I consider Christ I see him as the greatest oak tree. His character is immovably powerful, compassionate and wise. These are the qualities that Christ wants to grow in me so that I can serve him by loving my family in a Christlike way. This has meant I’ve given up what I like for their benefit. Computer games have been replaced with spending time with my wife and kids. Christ has challenged me to get to know them better so that I can love them more richly. I’m becoming more a shepherd to my family and less a drill sergeant. Growing up to be an oak tree has been difficult and slow. I’m grateful that Christ will never stop helping me to grow up. the Rev

Luke 9:51-62 Follow Christ

Exercises

• Discuss in what way Christ (in v51-53) is encouraging and in what specific way Christ wants you to be determined for him.

• Discuss in what way the disciples were in danger of misrepresenting Christ (in v54-56) and explore the significance of Christ’s rebuke. Share in what way you are similar to the disciples and share in what way Christ wants you to represent him.

Prayer: Lord Jesus I praise you for your determination to suffer, be rejected and killed to save my life. Grow a desire in my heart to live my life more deliberately for you as I seek to bear the fruit of your Spirit in my relationships with my family, church, friends, work and community.  Amen