Every few weeks, I write a post about running. I could talk about it all day long, but that's not what makes me a runner. My lightweight stability sneakers, my moisture-wicking shirts, my knee brace and my high-tech GPS watch don't go together to make me a runner.
Hanging out with runners, reading articles, learning the jargon and liking a bunch of running pages on Facebook won't make me a runner either.
The only thing that will make me a runner is… running.
In the same way, I can say I'm a follower of Jesus all day long.
I can use the catch-phrases. I can hang out with other followers. I can read all the right books, attend conferences, wear t-shirts, and put decals on my car, but none of that makes me a follower of Jesus.
The thing that makes me a follower of Jesus is… following.
His commands. His teaching. His example.
Then He said to the crowd, “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must turn from your selfish ways, take up your cross daily, and follow Me." Luke 9:23 NLT