I read something this morning that hit me as being so profound, I just have to share it. I came across this while doing some study on the verse, “If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.” Luke 9:23
Credit for this quote goes to someone named Dr. Fred Craddock. I googled him (of course) and found he is a professor of theology at Emory University. After all the credentials were listed, the article said, “Often characterized as preaching with a style that is ‘folksy’, Craddock is a strong supporter of using humor in sermons.” I knew I liked this guy. Here’s what my friend Fred had to say to me this morning:
“We think giving our all to the Lord is like taking a $1,000 bill and laying it on the table – ‘Here’s my life, Lord, I’m giving it all.’ But the reality for most of us is that he sends us to the bank and has us cash in the $1,000 for quarters. We go through life putting out 25 cents here and 50 cents there. Listen to the neighbor kid’s troubles instead of saying, ‘Get lost.’ Go to a committee meeting. Give a cup of water to a shaky old man in a nursing home.
“Usually giving our life to Christ isn’t glorious. It’s done in all those little acts of love, 25 cents at a time. It would be easy to go out in a flash of glory; it’s harder to live the Christian life little by little over the long haul.”
So, denying myself may mean intentionally NOT making the big thousand dollar-type sacrifice, but faithfully unloading twenty-five-centers when no one is paying any attention. So, what does that look like played out in everyday life? How do we deny ourselves?
a small drop of ink 
That slow death (sacrifice required death) is easier some days than others! And yes, I realize sacrifice/death isn’t about “easy” — nonetheless, we only know of two sacrifices that had cognizant realization of what was coming (Isaac & Jesus) and still went willingly. I often think the choosing of those little deaths are more difficult than the actions. Jesus died so we might live — in tiny ways compared to that we “die” so others might live more fully!
(Okay, this is gonna drive me crazy. I can’t edit my comment? “…choosing of those little deaths IS more difficult…” lol)
Nancy! Thanks so much for your comments! (And for being one of my 7 faithful readers!) I love hearing your thoughts! It’s almost (almost, I said) like sitting on your front porch and mulling over the riches of God together. You always make me think a little deeper, my friend. I so appreciate you!
I often wonder how willing Isaac was. Abraham is the one credited with having faith, but think about the faith of Isaac! Denying ourselves requires huge amounts of trust, I guess.
I am so thankful that Anna told me about your blog! What a blessing it is to learn from your wisdom. You are an incredible woman with a beautiful family. Thank you so much for all you do.
Oh! Thanks Leah! That means a lot to me!