And He was saying to them all, “If anyone wants to come after Me, he must deny himself, take up his cross daily, and follow Me.” — Luke 9:23
There is a big difference between following Christ and following a political leader or a political party. Political leaders can change. Parties can change. Their promises, plans, and opinions may shift over time. But Jesus does not change. His truth, His love, and His call remain the same.
When we follow a political leader, we may agree with their ideas or support their goals. But when we follow Jesus, we give Him our whole life. Jesus does not ask for only our vote, our opinion, or our support. He asks for our heart.
Jesus said that anyone who wants to follow Him must deny himself, take up his cross daily, and follow Him. This means I cannot put my pride, my comfort, my anger, or even my political opinions above Him. Following Christ means letting Him lead me, even when it is hard.
A political party may ask me to stand for its side. But Jesus calls me to stand with Him. He teaches me to love my neighbor, forgive my enemies, seek truth, show mercy, and live with humility. These things are not always easy, but they are part of carrying the cross daily.
My first loyalty must be to Christ. He is greater than any leader, party, or earthly power. If I follow Him, I must be willing to let His words shape my thoughts, my choices, and the way I treat people.
Following Jesus is not about winning arguments. It is about becoming more like Him. It is about choosing His way every day, even when the world pulls me in another direction.
Minister A Francine Green, August 2026