The Joy of the Fully Committed

“…save Yourself, and come down from the cross!" Mark 15:13

If Jesus had listened to these tempters and saved Himself, we would all be lost. But, Jesus was not bound to the cross by soldiers, hatred, or nails. He was not held by bondage but by commitment. Full commitment is the determination to achieve the goal no matter what the cost. The basis of the Ten Commandments is revealed in the first commandment to love God with all our might. This is a call to commitment rather than bondage.

People who desire to be part of an organization may feel that they must follow a certain set of rules to be a member of the group. This is an attitude of bondage. But, if a person is sincerely committed, they will make whatever sacrifices are needed for the success of the organization. This difference in attitude can be seen in business, government, families and churches.

One of our sons worked for a government entity that had leadership problems. He was part of a group that sought change but who became discouraged with progress. Most of that group changed jobs. But, He decided to be committed to the success of the organization and stayed. As a result, He was able to move forward with a good attitude. His commitment to the success of the department was recognized and he was encouraged to accept more responsibility. He soon became a leader who could actually influence the direction of the organization.

When Hannah gave up her young son to Eli the priest, she sang a song of joy. How could she do this? She was experiencing the joy of the fully committed. Our natural tendency is to hang out on the fringe and to seek the minimum set of rules to remain a member of the group. This is the attitude of a complaining slave. In contrast, we are called to give ourselves to the Lord as living sacrifices. This is full commitment. Let’s embrace our particular cross of being poured out for others and experience the joy of the fully committed.

Project:
What people or groups of people are depending on you?
Are you just a nominal member of the group or are you Fully Committed to their success?

Think about:

* Marriage
* Family
* Church
* Business
* Government
* God’s Kingdom

Recommended reading: "A Table in the Wilderness" by Watchman Nee