Take All of Me

Far too many Christians act as if the “salvation transaction” is both the beginning and the end of their experience.  In times past, this was referred to as “fire insurance.”

It’s when we recognize that Jesus died and was raised for us, so we accept it and continue on.  For one to flippantly disregard His plan for our redemption as just a simple add-on to our lives is hardly giving regard or justice to His true Lordship over our lives.  

The believers in the New Testament were very different.  They understood that Jesus actually came to give them life, but He’d also transform them.  For example, the moment he invited his disciples to follow, it was more than a morning walk; it was at that moment that their entire life journey changed – inside and outside.
Accepting and following Jesus is much more than merely escaping hell.  It’s certainly more than just taking advantage of his benefits and what he has to offer.  It is surrendering our lives completely and totally to him. As my friend, Lanny Wolfe so eloquently stated in his song, “Jesus, Be the Lord of All,” 

In the past when I tried to rule my world
It just seemed to fall apart
So please Jesus be the lord of all
The kingdoms of my heart

I surrender now, make my heart Your throne
Rule it's kingdoms, great and small
For if your not Lord of everything
Then your not Lord at all

My prayer is…Lord, my life is yours.  I’m right behind you; lead me and I will follow.

John 21:15 When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?” “Yes, Lord,” he said, “you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Feed my lambs.”

16 Again Jesus said, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” He answered, “Yes, Lord, you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Take care of my sheep.”

17 The third time he said to him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, “Do you love me?” He said, “Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you.”

Jesus said, “Feed my sheep. 18 Very truly I tell you, when you were younger you dressed yourself and went where you wanted, but when you are old you will stretch out your hands, and someone else will dress you and lead you where you do not want to go.” 19 Jesus said this to indicate the kind of death by which Peter would glorify God. Then he said to him, “Follow me!”

20 Peter turned and saw that the disciple whom Jesus loved was following them. (This was the one who had leaned back against Jesus at the supper and had said, “Lord, who is going to betray you?”) 21 When Peter saw him, he asked, “Lord, what about him?”

22 Jesus answered, “If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you? You must follow me.”