Luke 9:57-62

The Cost of Following Him ~

Three would-be disciples pledge to follow Jesus.  But, knowing their hearts, is brutally honest with them regarding what it means to "follow".

1)  Following Jesus is not easy or comfortable.  Jesus had no wealth, not even a home.  He traveled around preaching.  His entire life was devoted to others.  Is your walk about others or about you?

2)  Don't give excuses.  Burying one's family was important.  In fact, it was a year long process.  So, this person is saying, "I want to follow you, but I have to do this first."  Our relationship with Jesus comes first.  Family obligations are important, but they shouldn't be used as an excuse to ignore God. 

3)  I want to follow you BUT doesn't work for Jesus.  If you are plowing a field, you need to look forward.  If you keep looking back, your rows are going to be all wonky.  Following Jesus is the same.  We look forward.  We focus on Him. 

Does this mean Jesus doesn't care about your family?  Absolutely not.  Family is an important part of Jewish and Christian culture.  This section is simply telling us to get rid of the excuses.