Jesus pushes against the crowds following him in John 6. He drives most of them away. And then many of his disciples respond by saying “This teaching is difficult; who can accept it?” This remains an open question for the church, it would seem.

We seem relatively comfortable with the idea that following Jesus is a challenge. And yet we also expect it to be easy enough for everyone to do it. Often without trying.

I suspect that most of us embrace the challenge, but desire security. It is like recognizing our faith (and discipleship) is like gambling—so we want a “sure thing” before we put any money down.

And yet the hope (and joy!) is found in the doing and believing without the certainty or control. That we might delight in a world that we don’t have to understand and love without fear of loss.