This has been a crazy, busy week (even more than usual) so it’s been awhile since I’ve had a little time to blog…but I had to make the time this morning for a little “blog therapy”. =0)

This morning one of my readings was from Matthew 10:37-39:

 If you love your father or mother more than you love me, you are not worthy of being mine;
or if you love your son or daughter more than me, you are not worthy of being mine. 
If you refuse to take up your cross and follow me, you are not worthy of being mine. 
If you cling to your life, you will lose it; but if you give up your life for me, you will find it.

Taken at it’s face this is a tough passage to swallow…almost seems like Jesus is asking us to make some tough choices here. But we know in the greater context of Scripture that Jesus isn’t asking us to do anything crazy…we are commanded to love everyone with great passion and love.

What Jesus is telling me is that no matter how much I love my family and friends (and even my own life)…I should be valuing my relationship with Him even more! Here is where it does get tough. If I examine my life and my sould can I honestly say that I love and value my relationship with Christ more than: My Mom and Dad, My Kids, and My Life??

And am I willing to lay down everything for Him and live a life focused on Him (and all of the potential hardship that goes along with that)?

As I examine my own life I am afraid I don’t always measure up to that standard. And I’m pretty sure it’s not even possible in our own power and strength. For that, we need God’s power and strength…we need His Spirit and a vibrant relationship with Him.

The very relationship He is asking us to value above everything else…