Obviously, nobody will be pleased with being called a fool. Who is a fool? A fool is a person who acts unwisely, imprudently, or simply put, a silly person. It is, therefore, considered as a derogatory word, and even a real fool will not like to be addressed as such.
“We are fools for Christ’s sake, but ye are wise in Christ; we are weak, but ye are strong; ye are honourable, but we are despised” (1Cor. 4:10). In the scriptural text above, Apostle Paul was referring to himself and other disciples with him as being fools for the sake of Jesus Christ. However, he said they were wise in Christ, despite being fool for His sake. The statement is quite loaded with spiritual connotations of part of the cost of being a disciple of Jesus Christ. A potential disciple of Jesus must be willing and ready to be called a fool for Christ’s sake. Having denied himself or herself, the next phase of discipleship is bearing or carrying his/her cross. The way of the cross may not be as smooth as ordinarily expected. Jesus Christ, while passing through the way, suffered a lot of physical, emotional and psychological pains. He was bruised, insulted and assaulted at every point, yet, He carried the cross. In the journey of faith, there will be barrage of criticism, persecution, oppression and verbal attacks from the world system. Friend, I charge you not to be discouraged because, it is part of the hurdles to cross while carrying the cross. The truth is that the world does not perceive the way you see. “For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God” (1Cor. 1:18). As you go about your daily routines, bearing your cross, be rest assured that you will be hated, despised and criticized. How does it sound when Jesus Christ said: “But I say unto you, love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you” (Matt. 5:44). It is not that you don’t have a right to react negatively, but you choose not to. The sure fact is that God is taking notice, and you will be decorated and celebrated at the end, if you don’t give up. Cross-taking is a day-to-day activity which a would-be disciple must gladly practice.
Beloved, it pays being called a fool for the sake of the gospel of Christ and the Kingdom of our heavenly Father. If it takes you alone standing for Christ, don’t blink your eyes before doing so. Always remember that there cannot be crown without the cross! God bless you. SHALOM
