So there will be tensions that happen when someone chooses to live their life following Jesus.

Not, of course, that following means being mean, being divisive, being demeaning, being critical.

The two greatest commandments are, according to Jesus, to love God with all your heart, soul, mind and strength, and love your neighbor as yourself. Too often we hear people who say that they are following Jesus and then are mean and critical and condemning to others.

That’s not the invitation of Jesus.

Instead, here’s the invitation from Jesus: Follow me.

It’s what he said to John and Andrew. What he said to Peter and Philip. What he says to everyone who wants to be his disciple. “Follow me.”

Most days Nancy (my wife) posts a verse on Facebook. It’s a thoughtful, prayerful process for her. The other day, she was looking at Galatians 6, words written to a group of people who said they followed Jesus and were remarkable cranky toward each other. And they were doing it in the name of God.

Paul scolds the divisive ones, reminds them of who Christ is. And then, near the end of his letter, he writes (and Nancy shared) this:

“So we must not get tired of doing good, for we will reap at the proper time if we don’t give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, we must work for the good of all, especially for those who belong to the household of faith.” Galatians 6:9-10

The good of all, and then especially for the family. Those who God calls family.