The Selfless Disciple
21st MAY 2024
“And whoever does not carry their cross and follow me cannot be my disciple.” — [Luke 14:27 NIV]
The call to discipleship is a call to selflessness. Jesus makes it clear in Luke 14:27 that following Him requires carrying our own cross. This is a profound symbol of self-denial and commitment to the path He walked — a path marked by sacrifice, service, and profound deep love for others.
To be a disciple of Christ means to live a life that is not only centred on our desires but on the needs and well-being of others as well.
This is not an easy task; it demands a daily choice to put others before ourselves, to serve without expecting anything in return, and to love unconditionally.
Jesus is the ultimate example of selflessness. Philippians 2:6–8 tells us that though He was in the form of God, He did not consider equality with God something to be used to His own advantage. Instead, He emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant, and humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death — even death on a cross.
His life was a continuous outpouring of self-giving love. He healed the sick, fed the hungry, and spent time with those whom society had cast aside. In His final act of selflessness, He sacrificed His life for the redemption of humanity.
To carry our cross daily is to embrace this same spirit of selflessness. It means putting aside our own ambitions and comforts to follow the example of Christ. Here are some practical ways to cultivate selflessness in our daily lives: serving others, listening and empathising, sacrificing personal comfort, praying for others, forgiving and extending grace.
Heavenly Father, I come before You with a heart open to Your transformative love. I ask for the strength and courage to carry my cross daily, to live selflessly as Your disciples. Help me to see the needs around me and respond with compassion and grace. May my life reflect the selfless love of Christ, and may I be a light in this world, drawing others closer to You. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.
Further Reading: Philippians 2:6–8
Bible In One Year: Job[17–20]
