Tonight, the devotion with our boys landed us at John 12:26. It turned into an interesting discussion as I tried to explain to Jonathan what this verse meant from a seven year old perspective.

John 12:26 All those who want to be my disciples must come and follow me, because my servants must be where I am. And if they follow me, the Father will honor them. -nlt

 We got into a funny discussion that had more to do with where we want God to ask us to follow him, rather than where he’s leading. What can you expect fresh off a road-trip?

 However, what really got my attention was the last phrase – “the Father will honor them.” If you think about it – it’s really heavy.  I can’t imagine anything our humanity can come up with, that will result in the God of the Universe, the Creator and Lord of all, the One who knows all mysteries, understands what perfection really is, He who knows all thoughts, all hearts – giving honor to us. As I consider all my flaws, there’s nothing in me deserving of that kind of honor. Yet, Jesus says – if we follow Him, the Father will honor us. Following Jesus not only places us on the path to experiencing real life, it positions us for honor. Honor we don’t deserve, and can never earn, but honor given simply because of whom we follow.

 My prayer: Lord, help me to follow you closely in the way I live, the way I relate to others and ultimately, the way I go. Ever following after you.