What to Do With the Invitation Nobody Wants?

With every invitation there is a sense of mystery and anticipation. Maybe even dread, if you are an introvert. But one invitation that has been handed to me and anyone who follows Jesus gives pause to the receiving. It is His invitation to join in the fellowship of His suffering.

Oh no, Lord, anything but that! Please……..

But He gently persists in His request to join Him in that exclusive companionship. Ever courteous, always the gentleman, drawing me forward in the hard places that require me to leave something of myself behind. Yet, I resist out of fear of the unknown, of anticipated pain (physical and emotional), of loss. I can only see the negatives from this whole process. Is it really necessary, Lord? Must I follow you there?

He leans close and reminds me that is was for joy’s sake He went to the cross for me so that I could have the blessing of His presence in this earthly life as well as the next. True love requires sacrifice; suffering. To leave a part of yourself behind for the sake of the ones you truly love. The union that results is joyous!

True Christianity is the sharing by example the life of Christ through our own, in all aspects.

He holds your invitation in His nail-scarred hand. Will you receive it?
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This was written in response to the prompt to write for five minutes on one word for that day, in this case ‘invite’. If you’re interested in finding out how you can join this community of writers/encouragers, check out Five Minute Friday. 

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