What It's Worth

There’s nothing quite like a global pandemic to strike up an existential crisis. Where fear runs rampant and uncertainty seems to have no expiration date, it can be really difficult to remain fixated on what once was clear and true.

Along with the majority of social media users, I have experienced an endless influx of news and information regarding the COVID-19 outbreak that has crippled the globe. As I have been left to pray, think, and cope with day-to-day functioning in light of what is happening, I can’t help but think about my faith. What makes following Jesus worth it? Why has He allowed all this suffering to happen? How should my experience be different from someone who does not consider Jesus as their Savior?

These kinds of questions are uncomfortable. In the security of normal day-to-day life, I don’t necessarily have to think about these things. I can brush off my misunderstanding. I can, in a sense, balance my “Christian life” and my mundane, everyday activity. But that’s really missing the point—and it’s not what was intended for me all along.

So, what is it worth to follow Jesus? Why do I know, without a doubt, that He is for me and not against me in these moments of suffering? What has drawn me to follow Jesus, and keeps me from living a life for anything else?

The answer to these questions is simple, yet my human mind so desperately desires to complicate it.

It is worth it to follow Jesus simply because it is what I was created to do.

Not satisfied? I wasn’t either initially. That is, not until I pondered the vastness of all that this statement truly means, and how it has played out in my life.

Similar to how a child innately desires to be with their parent, we are uniquely fashioned in the Image of God. We are designed to bring Him glory. His love is unending for us, and He unconditionally pursues us. He sent His very own Son to earth, to die a brutal death on a cross, so that we could have the opportunity to spend eternity with Him.

So what does that mean for me? Initially, I thought about writing about all of the “fringe benefits” that often coincide with following Jesus. While I could go on and on about all the times Jesus has brought me peace, joy, and strength amidst the worst of circumstances, there is a greater purpose to following Him. I have purpose and security simply because by choosing to follow Him, He is always with me.

It is worth it to follow Jesus because it is what I was made to do; and by choosing to follow Him, He remains with me!

As I look ahead to these weeks, or even months of struggle to come, I am able to hold tight to the truth that I am not alone. The very One who created me into existence is walking beside me, reminding me of my purpose, giving me hope, and bringing me strength. It is my one desire that amidst all of this, I am able to bring Him honor and glory.

If you are feeling discouraged, remember that your suffering is not final. You are not alone. Jesus is waiting to fill you, sustain you, and show Himself faithful in your life. Will you invite Him to do so?

In this world you may have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world. John 16:33

Until next time,

Tamara