Christian Commitment

Many years ago, I came across a reproduction of some words that had been written by an African pastor, and fastened to the wall of his home.  Whilst attending to some clearing-up, earlier this evening, I found my (slightly amended) copy of those words.  I share them, as a challenge to myself, and to all who dare to call themselves "disciples of Jesus".

"I'm a part of the fellowship of the unashamed.  I have Holy Spirit power.  The die has been cast.  I have stepped over the line.  The decision has been made.  I'm a disciple of His!  I won't look back, let up, slow down, back away, or be still.  My past is redeemed; my present makes sense; my future is secure.  I'm finishes and done with low living; sight walking; small planning; smooth knees; colourless dreams; tamed visions; mundane talking; cheap living; and dwarfed goals.

I no longer need pre-eminence, prosperity, position, promotions, plaudits, or popularity.  I don't have to be right, first, tops, recognised, praised, regarded, or rewarded.  I now live by faith; lean on His presence; walk with patience; lift in prayer; and labour by power.  I'm a disciple of Jesus!  My face is set; my gait is fast; my goal is heaven; my road is narrow; my way rough; my companions few; my Guide reliable; my mission clear. 

I cannot be bought, compromised, detoured, lured away, turned back, deluded, or delayed.  I will not flinch in the face of sacrifice; hesitate in the presence of the adversary; negotiate at the table of the enemy; ponder at the pool of popularity; or meander in the maze of mediocrity.  I won't give up, shut up, let up; until I have stayed up, stored up, prayed up, preached up, for the cause of the Christ.  I am a disciple of Jesus!  

I must go 'til He comes; give 'til I drop; preach 'til all know; and work 'til He stops me.  And when He comes for His own, He will have no problem in recognising me - my banner will be clear.  I am a disciple of JESUS!"

Would that all of us who 'talk the talk', were to 'walk the walk' in such a committed manner!  We can, by the same power, provided by the same Holy Spirit, to the glory of the same Jesus!