Scripture: Matt. 8:14, 15; 10:34-37; 28:18-20; Luke 5:17-26.

The 2008 presidential campaign is in full swing in the United Sates. The four front-runners, Republicans John McCain and Mike Huckabee, and Democrats Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton, have been on the grueling campaign trail for months now. It takes dedication to run for president. The long hours, time away from home, and personal attacks can take their toll

One of the most talked about attacks last week was felt by Senator Clinton. It didn’t come from voters, or the press, but from her opponent. Senator Obama’s campaign had sent out two mailings that Clinton strongly claimed misrepresented her views on universal healthcare and NAFTA. She was so furious that she declared in a campaign speech in Ohio, “Shame on you, Barack Obama…. Meet me in Ohio. Let’s have a debate about your tactics and your behavior on this campaign.” 1

Another candidate under fire was Senator McCain. He had to defend himself against The New York Times which printed a story with allegations that he was previously involved in an inappropriate relationship with a female lobbyist. McCain, with his wife by his side, denied any unethical behavior. 2
It takes dedication to run for office. Candidates must really believe in what they’re doing and have the goal clearly in sight. As disciples of Jesus, we too, must really believe in what we’re doing—and have our goal clearly in sight. This week’s lesson teaches us through the lives of New Testament disciples both the costs and benefits of being a disciple:

A disciple has a Master. Just as Jesus’ disciples asked for help in ministering, we can too. We don’t work alone. We minister with Jesus. Jesus will impress us what to say and do, and give us the power we need.

A disciple is selfless. We may know much about the Bible and have the knowledge to teach and preach it to the world--but it is the disciple that sees himself or herself as a servant, who Jesus can best use.

A disciple can bring disunity. We should be prepared that our family and friends may not be as excited about our discipleship as we are. Some may even reject us. But we shouldn’t give up. There are many stories of Christians whose steady love broke down barriers of resentment.

A disciple sacrifices. Wanting to hold on to the treasures of this world while being a disciple just doesn’t go hand-in-hand. We need to make up our minds where our treasures lie. If they’re in Heaven, it will be natural to be a dedicated disciple, preparing the world to go there.

A disciple is active. Just as a candidate can’t win an election by sitting at home, we can’t win people to Jesus by doing nothing. Think of “discipleship” as an active word. Jesus has asked us to “go.” Going for you may be next-door, to your job, to the market, or across the world as a disciple. Regardless, Jesus needs you to campaign for Heaven.

The cost of discipleship is far outweighed by its benefits. And when you think about Jesus sacrificing life itself for you, it’s really no cost at all—but an act of love. ~nc

1. ABC News

2. ABC News

 Creative Ministry Center.   www.creativeministry.org