A student of mine just graduating this June told me that he had registered a guaranteed course which would assure him to past the special examination for police officers next June. During this year’s preparation, what he has to do is go to class, follow the course schedule, study the material and review exam questions. If he fails the exam, the cram school will definitely return the fees.

This student has a clear vision and goal — to be a police officer. He told me he would exchange everything for passing the exam. I could see his determination through our conversation. This reminds me of being a follower of Jesus like myself. How will we follow Christ and what must we do to be called a Christian? Like my student, we have to make our decision to follow the Lord.

Jesus said to his disciples, “If anyone would become my follower, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily  and follow me” (Luke 9:23). If a person wants to be a true Christian, a follower of Christ, first of all he or she must give up self-seeking interests and ambitions, placing God’s will above his or her own desires. Then take up his or her cross every day. The cross is a symbol of humility and humiliation. Being God himself, Jesus obediently came to the earth and paid all our sins and even died on the cross. He suffered a great pain physically and shamefully. Finally they are eligible for following Jesus if they deny themselves and take up their crosses daily.

Most Christians think to be a follower of Christ is a type of honor and glory. Yes, it is in the sight of God, but humanly speaking, it could be a shame. Do we seek God’s will every day as Jesus sought the Father’ will earnestly? Are we willing to suffer as Jesus did obediently?

Are you ready to follow Jesus?