What does it take to be God's disciple?

I've been enjoying the summer Bible Study on Mark. It was only 4 weeks long, but it was a great way to become better acquainted with the book. The group of disciples studying with me made it an even better experience. One week we explored the book of Mark by looking at what it had to say about discipleship. We came up with an intimidating and challenging list!

*faith/trust

ability to see the big picture

understanding

prayer

ability to heal

*humility

*servanthood

inclusive – no discriminating

*selflessness

is loyal, steadfast

staying ‘awake’ – being mindful

steadfast, even in the face of personal threat

ability to weep, be remorseful, to repent

willingness to touch others

ability to be moved with compassion

willingness to disregard the rules for the sake of compassion or need

take up your cross

put God first

The qualities that have a star (*) beside them were mentioned in more than one scripture passage.

This lesson has stuck in my mind for a couple of reasons. First, it is not even a comprehensive list, and yet it is overwhelming. Trying to live up to following God by being all these things is a very tall order!

But it has also stuck in my mind because it is not like other job descriptions I see. There are few "measurable" qualities on this list. The qualifications are often attitudes or leanings of the heart. They are, for the most part, qualities of being -- as opposed to qualities of doing.

Being on the path of God is more about our way of being than it is about doing. Oh, there is definitely doing involved in following God and putting God first. But that doing comes out of hearts that are humble, faithful, understanding and prayerful.

It would be a lot easier if it was only about doing. But it isn't. Walking on God's path changes us from the inside out!