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If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his Cross, and follow Me. – Matthew 16:24

Perhaps the most effective advertisement ever written appeared in a London newspaper early in the 20th century: "Men wanted for hazardous journey. Small wages, bitter cold, long months of complete darkness, constant danger. Safe return doubtful." Those were the words written by Sir Ernest Shackleton, the famous South Pole explorer.

Commenting on the overwhelming response he received, Shackleton said, "It seemed as though all the men in Great Britain were determined to accompany us."

Shackleton’s words remind me of Jesus’ words in Matthew 16:24, "If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me." The Lord was calling people to go with Him on a hazardous journey – the way of the cross. He issued that call after telling His disciples that He was going to Jerusalem to suffer and be killed.

Through the centuries, thousands have responded to Jesus’ words by forsaking all to follow Him. But unlike Shackleton’s expedition that came to an end, the Lord’s work goes on and volunteers are still needed. He continues to call for those who will serve Him regardless of the cost.

Have you answered His call? – Richard De Haan

Never came the call more clear,
Midst the storms of hate and fear,
Jesus’ love to show in this world of woe;
For His grace is ever near. – Loes

READ: 2:1-13

A faith that costs nothing and demands nothing is worth nothing.

The Bible in one year:

• Isaiah 39-40

• Colossians 4