Luke 9:52

It's hard to switch to a new pair of shoes. Although they are new and better looking, they don't feel the same. They may be stiff. They may rub your feet in the wrong places. They need to be broken in. So a struggle arises. Do I stay with the "old reliables," or do I make the switch? Part of me wants to remain with what is comfortable. Part of me says I need to make the change.

Switching to something new and different is difficult. There will always be a time of learning and transition. It will feel strange, even uncomfortable. All the while there will be pull to go back to what is familiar and comfortable.

This is the very issue Jesus addressed to his followers. People wanted to have it all. Yes, they wanted to follow Jesus, but they weren't ready to leave their old life behind.

It is a dilemma I face. Jesus has completely changed me. Through his sacrifice on the cross and his triumph over the grave, he has given me a new life. No longer are my thoughts and actions dominated by sin and controlled by Satan. Jesus has made me his and established himself as my loving Lord and merciful Master. With this change I now serve Jesus in love and thanks.  

There is only one complication. While part of me rejoices in my new life, another part of me bristles at the change. Like the switch to a new pair of shoes, this new life creates a struggle. Do I remain in it, or do I return to my old ways? The old ways—gratifying my sinful self—are familiar, comfortable, even natural. The new life in Christ may seem confining, uncomfortable, even unnatural. So what do I do?

Jesus helps me live without fear or regret. He helps me understand what my new life means, now and for eternity. It is his power that gives me the strength to take hold of the new life he has given. It is his love that makes me look forward to the opportunities my new life offers. It is his promise that keeps me faithful and looking forward to a lifetime of blessings now, and an eternity of blessings in heaven.

It is only because of Jesus that I can live with no regrets.