I am a Jesus pusher!!! The disciples left (aphiemi) their nets to follow Jesus (Matthew 4:20). The attitude of pushing aside something important to us seems to be a common characteristic in the lives of all those who embrace Jesus. The Rich Young Ruler found his life lacking. His question to Jesus revealed the lack, “Good Teacher, what good thing shall I do that I may have eternal life?” (Matthew 19:16). Undoubtedly, he considered this another activity to add to his already busy life. Jesus’ final statement to the young man was a call to repel what was at the core of his focus. His riches were the heart of his value system. All other interests were strongly connected to his love of his riches, therefore, this is what he must repel.
Paul reported, “And I advanced in Judaism beyond many of my contemporaries in my own nation, being more exceedingly zealous for the traditions of my fathers,” (Galatians 1:14). His life was driven by the core value of his fathers’ traditions. His career as a Pharisee, his persecution of Christians, and his zeal for Judaism were all driven by his zeal for the traditions of my fathers. Jesus could never be an additional belief or interest to his life. He must push aside the traditions of his fathers’ in order to embrace the call of Jesus. Jesus is worthy of my total focus. I am a Jesus pusher!!!