Challenge Central: a CBC devotional
By: John Kerr
I like log cabins. Facebook posts many pics of beautiful cabins in the mountains and by a flowing river. I clicked on the “like” button and now Facebook algorithms have inundated me with similar pictures. But one in particular got my attention: “live off-grid; live on your own terms!”
If you are a sucker for the romance of living in a cabin beside a rushing stream in a wooded mountain valley. I would suggest that you think long and hard before you pack up and leave Brantford.
While we were living in northern B.C., we got to know a family who lived off-grid. They bought a trap line and eventually won occupancy rights for year-round living.
It was idyllic when you were just a visitor. As we got to know them, we learned a lot about that lifestyle.
No phone, no internet, no hydro, no municipal water. You get the picture.
But there were a lot of other factors. They had to be a mechanic (no CAA), first aid attendant, adept at all sorts of technical pursuits. It is an exhaustive (and exhausting) list! As a family we were invited to supper and a movie night and during the movie suddenly, the TV died.
“Don’t worry” our host cried, “I just need to fill the generator!” I hope you get the idea. Living off grid is an “all in” proposition.
As I looked at the Facebook post and remembered what an off-grid life was really like, my thoughts came to the Christian life.
When you study the New Testament, there is a pattern that emerges from the pages of scripture. The Christian life is not a romantic endeavour. It is a life that demands an “all in” mentality.
While on earth, Jesus demonstrated a commitment to His purpose that often eluded his disciples. Peter, as he often did, missed the point. After his marvellous confession of Jesus as the Christ, he recoiled at the idea of Jesus being killed. (Mark 8: 31-38).
After Jesus rebukes Peter, He says: “if anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.” (Mark 8: 34) This is an all-in call to discipleship. The cross is not a piece of jewellery or a tattoo, but it is a manifesto that implies the possibility of a gruesome death.
The apostle Paul stated succinctly this thought: “For me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.” (Phil. 1:21). Later in his life, a more mature Peter said: “because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you might follow in his steps.” (1 Pet. 2:21)
So, the next time that you feel an impulse to live off grid. Remember that it requires an all-in commitment. Likewise, if you think that living for Christ is an easy proposition, remember that it requires an all-in commitment, but one that will bring its own rewards.
