In my early twenties our family took a trip to Yosemite. It was my first time and truly magnificent. We were heading up a major hike when my uncle and cousin decided to run the rest of the way. I decided to kick my athleticism into gear and follow them. Boy was I in for a reality check! I didn’t realize how fast and how long they could both run. I did not expect to be out of breath, wet, and feeling inferior in my physical ability.

Jesus gave a reality check to His disciples one day. They had a grand view of following Him as conquering Messiah until he informed them that He will suffer and die. And that following Him as suffering Messiah looks different than they might think. From Mark 8:34–38 we learn at least three things about following Jesus as God’s saving and ruling Messiah.

First, there must be selfrenunciation (“deny yourself”). In humility, we must deny ourselves as Lord. My life is no longer my own. My desires are not king. My life belongs to Jesus. Second, there must be commitment (“take up your cross and follow Me”). Jesus must be followed even unto death. If we are ever faced with deny Jesus or die; we choose death. Third, there must be confidence (“whoever is ashamed for Me”). We are not ashamed of Jesus, but proud. We are not sorry, but bold. It is our confident pleasure to follow and serve Him.

Let us be clear about following the Messiah who suffered on our behalf. It will cost us and suffering may be inevitable, but it is eternally worth it to follow the saving King of kings and Lord of lords.