Hangers-on

December 10

The year 2012 was an election year in the United States. Candidates campaigned to garner votes and in the process, many people attached themselves to those who were running for various offices. Now, however, the election is behind us and the losers are left without the hangers-on who were recently clinging to their coat-tails.

Everyone wants to be close to the seat of power. Everyone wants to think he has some influence with the ‘high-muckety-mucks.’ Nobody wants to hang around the failed candidate. All his supporters are searching for other rising stars with whom to align themselves.

But this isn’t what Jesus expects of those who claim to be His followers. In I John 2:6 the beloved apostle states very clearly, “Whoever says that he lives in God must live as Jesus lived.” And Jesus expected His disciples to stay close to Him. His admonition to them was, “In the world you shall have tribulation, but be of good cheer, for I have overcome the world,” John 16:33. He doesn’t want fair-fortune followers. He wants us to follow His example.

Jesus came to us, came to save us, although we were unlovely and unlovable. He wants us to stand by Him and His gospel of truth even if we might be persecuted, even if there might be a high price to pay for faithfulness. Jesus doesn’t expect us to be mere hangers on when things are going well for the Church. He wants us to be faithful even if the hour of persecution comes.