The cost

Haiku for disciples

Think priorities.

Discipleship must come first,

before family.

This is difficult.

Know what you’re getting into

when you answer ‘yes!’

The cross you carry

is an instrument of pain.

You will feel its weight.

Finish what you start.

Sit down, estimate the cost

before you begin.

I have looked ahead,

can see what’s waiting for me;

know who you follow.

Carefully reckon

the cost of discipleship:

follow anyway.

Don’t let anything

keep you from the kingdom path.

Be a disciple.

© Ken Rookes 2019

Taking it up

Haiku to make one hesitate

You who would follow,

look to Jesus, your teacher.

Try to be like him.

You might not win friends.

Jesus made enemies, too;

you won't be alone.

There are no secrets.

Stand boldly, proclaim God's truth;

do not be afraid.

Hold firm, speak my name,

be known as my disciples;

I will keep you safe.

It won't be easy;

don't expect a life of peace.

Jesus brought a sword.

Son against father,

daughter against her mother;

families divide.

This cross is painful.

No bright trinket on a chain;

wear it if you dare.

Worthy followers

understand the challenges,

know the costs of love.

My friends, be prepared;

if you want to find your life

you must let it go.

© Ken Rookes 2017

Costing Discipleship

Haiku for intending acolytes.

Large crowds of people

travelled with the carpenter;

learning to follow.

Some went with Jesus

for curiosity's sake,

were yet to commit.

Jesus showed the way,

putting his life on the line

for love and justice.

Carrying the cross.

Try to guess what that might mean.

Will I qualify?

It's a costly thing,

the discipleship journey;

look where you're going.

Building a tower

or going into battle:

know what you're up for.

What will be the cost,

will you have enough to win?

Finish what you start.

Jesus calls us all.

Love's costly work is waiting;

Come with me, he says.

© Ken Rookes 2016