Luke 14:28

Alfred Shropshire

For which of you, intending to build a tower, sitteth not down first, and counteth the cost, whether he have sufficient to finish it.

In this section of Chapter 14 of the book of Luke, Jesus is talking to a large group of followers about the cost of being a disciple. He stresses the importance of being prepared for the heights and depths that such a commitment would involve. The examples he uses, a builder who makes sure that he has enough money to cover the cost of his project, and a king who does not send his army into battle without weighing the possible outcome, invites his listeners, and us, to think about laying a solid foundation for our actions and doing adequate planning and preparation as we go about our daily lives.

Surely, the crowd of people that Jesus was addressing had no idea of his impending trial and crucifixion. In this time of Lent, when we look forward to Easter, we need to take to heart the knowledge that choosing to follow Jesus is not a choice to be made lightly. Along with the reward, we must be aware of the cost. When we choose fesus, it is final and involves the surrender of all one has.

As the author, Lawrence O. Richards (The Bible Reader's Companion) says "Count the cost of following Jesus in pennies, the •eward in millions."

Prayer. Thank you Father for making yourself known to us through Tesus. May we grow in understanding, in our relationship with you, ind in our relationships with others by following Jesus' example and by your grace. Amen.