Today, Jesus speaks some difficult words. “Leave the dead to bury their own dead.” “No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for the kingdom of God.” He seems to call His followers to completely forsake their old lives, their fathers and families, and to radically change their lives to follow Him. It almost seems harsh and cruel. But what if He really means it? What if following Jesus really is worth giving up everything else–including family, money, or health? Thanks be to God that Jesus gave up everything and set His face to go to Jerusalem—to the cross, to the tomb, and to life everlasting—purely out of love for you.