Old Testament: Hosea 1-2
Poetry: Psalm 76
New Testament: Luke 14:25-35
Since the pandemic, mental health has become an important topic that has not only been destigmatized, but has rapidly appeared in popular culture. Looking at the vocabulary passed along in social media, I’m sure you’ve seen a quote or two referencing toxic behaviors, triggers, gaslighting, or keeping some type of balance. The vast majority of those offering this advice are not certified to give it, but many have the ability to identify, and for the most part avoid, unhealthy relationships and behaviors that would emotionally exhaust us. So I, as one not certified to give advice, offer some advice, albeit unpopular and radical wisdom for the day and age we live in: God asks us to form addictive, dependent relationships in abandonment of self.
When the LORD began to speak through Hosea, the LORD said to him, ‘Go, marry a promiscuous woman and have children with her, for like an adulterous wife this land is guilty of unfaithfulness to the LORD’” (Hosea 1:2, NIV)
In a very specific instance, God instructs Hosea to marry Gomer, taking on an unhealthy relationship, knowingly to a woman who would be unfaithful to him. Not only a symbolic representation, but a real life metaphor, Hosea’s heart mimicked that of the Most High who was heartbroken by Israel’s infidelity. Yet in the same way, Hosea’s persistent love and commitment would mirror God’s unwavering love for His people. In spite of our own betrayal, God beckons us to return to Him and be restored. This is a promise for Israel but truly, for each one of us.
Jesus also speaks directly to the demands of this type of abandonment in relationships. Conversely, His focus is the reciprocation of God’s reckless love to us. In the same manner, we prioritize Him above all else, even above family and possessions. In maybe the toughest pill to swallow in the ministry of Jesus, he states in Luke 14:26, “If anyone comes to me and does not hate father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters—yes, even their own life—such a person cannot be my disciple.” Jesus double-downs on this statement, saying that we each must carry our own cross to follow Him. The demands of following Christ are toxic to self and most indeed will destroy us.
But this is the very cost of knowing Christ. If we were not aware of it before, be reminded of it as you read and re-read these words today. There must be a willingness to give up everything that hinders our relationship with God, and not only accept this, but embrace the sacrifices of discipleship. No doubt there could be a growing dissonance in our minds. If this is the case, it could be that we are trying to preserve the self that remains instead of running to our relationship with the abandonment of Hosea, and ultimately, our Heavenly Father. True discipleship demands more than superficial commitment. It requires a deep and wide devotion to Jesus, the same dedication He showed to His Father and to us.
Although we have lived in a manner that made us unworthy, God’s love for us is restorative and sufficient for any loss. The Church of God is His bride in the coming kingdom, and it matters not our history before coming to Him. We must no longer accept Jesus, for this implies He is tolerated. We must make a covenant with Him, becoming one. He has fully demonstrated His love for us, so we must embrace the cost of this radical relationship that continues to transform every aspect of our life.
-Aaron Winner
Reflection Questions
- “True discipleship demands more than superficial commitment.” Where else can you see this principle taught and illustrated in the Bible?
- How deep does your commitment to God go? What do you find gets in the way of diving deeper into commitment?
- How would you describe God’s love? What is your response to His love for you? OR – asked another way – What is God asking of you in your relationship to Him and to His Son? And what does He offer in return?
Seek Grow Love 