... can learn, from the call of the early disciples about the nature of discipleship itself that if we are going to be disciples of Jesus we need to leave everything behind and follow Jesus. In the opening chapter of the gospel, Jesus calls five men to be his disciples. The first four are called by the lakeside in Galilee. ... them to leave everything and follow him. He said to Simon and Andrew that they were to become fishers of men. The cost of discipleship means anyone who wishes to be a follower of Jesus must:- Leave self behind, he must take up his cross, and come with me. To leave self...

• Word Count: 634
• Approx Pages: 3
• Grade Level: High School

... myself, like a calm peaceful river that is flowing at a pace no one understands. The story, along with all the other things to come in that bright and sunny day, made Christmas special. Family would arrive all during the day; it felt like a high school homecoming. The warmth of loved ones calmed my spirits. I would gather my rowdy cousins, play games, sing, and talk about what we ... wanted for Christmas. The feeling of unity always swept through me, and I knew it was something no one could replace. The adults would be scattered throughout the house talking and catching up on old ... t...

• Word Count: 796
• Approx Pages: 3
• Grade Level: High School