Proper 24 - B - Mark 8:34-35 - A Gentle Thunder - Max Lucado

" On one side stands the crowd.

Jeering. Baiting. Demanding.

On the other stands a peasant.
Swollen lips. Lumpy eye. Lofty promise.

One promises acceptance,
the other a cross.

One offers flesh and flash,
the other offers faith.

The crowd challenges, "Follow us and fit in."

Jesus promises, "Follow me and stand out."

They promise to please.
God promises to save.

God looks at you and asks...
Which will be your choice?

Thank you for setting us free. may we be spurred on by your love to do great works, yet never substituting those works for your great grace. Keep us amazed and mesmerized by what you have done for us. "

Max Lucado, God's Inspirational Promise Book; Word Publishing, Dallas, Texas; 1996; Pg 41.