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“You’re in the army now.”
Those were the words my friend heard as he signed his papers to enlist. The life of a soldier is one of sacrifice and commitment. He was giving up everything he had known for a new role, a new family, a new life.
But it wasn’t a one time thing. It was a daily commitment of choosing to be a soldier over all other things. Sacrifices continued, some small, some great. And yet, he remained steadfast.
And then, there was the future to think about. Soon, he’d be deployed once again to fight in the war. How far was he willing for his commitment to go?
“SOLDIERS, WHEN COMMITTED TO A TASK,
CAN’T COMPROMISE. IT’S UNRELENTING DEVOTION TO THE STANDARDS OF DUTY AND COURAGE, ABSOLUTE LOYALTY TO OTHERS, NOT LETTING THE TASK GO UNTIL IT’S BEEN DONE.”
-John Keegan
Absolute loyalty. No compromise. Total commitment.
This was the life he chose. He gave it all for something bigger than himself.
Luke 18:28-30
“Then Peter said, Lo, we have left all, and followed thee. And he said unto them, Verily I say unto you, There is no man that hath left house, or parents, or brethren, or wife, or children, for the kingdom of God’s sake, Who shall not receive manifold more in this present time, and in the world to come life everlasting.”
Jesus has just explained to a rich young ruler what he must do to gain eternal life. Peter jumps in and states, “we’ve done that!”
Peter. This guy is bold. He’s got a temper, a mouth, and he’s passionate, to say the least. He stated the disciples had given up everything they knew to follow Jesus. He and his brother had given up their nets, boat and fishing business. But to them, it was more than that.
Jesus wanted Peter and the others to know, this life of following Him, was one of commitment and sacrifice. Not just in the past, but a daily choice. And to be all in for what was ahead in the future.
How far were they willing to let their commitment go? Jesus knew. He knew they would live a life of sacrifice. He knew they would all be martyred for their faith except John. And He knew He alone could be their example, their reason for being a soldier.
This was the life Jesus chose.
He gave it all.
As a follower of Christ, we too must remember the sacrifice and commitment required. There will be rewards, certainly. But how far are we willing to let our commitment go?
Are you committed to following Jesus?
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