There is a flower garden in the Primary school yard near the track that I visit from time to time. Toward the end of the school year the kids plant sunflower seeds which yield beautiful plants with large sunflowers as big as a dinner plate. Just about the time school lets out for the summer, the flowers are in full bloom.

As I arrive at the track just about the time the rays of sun are peaking over the horizon, it's fun to notice the sunflowers have turned their heads around to greet the light. As you know, the sunflower follows the beams of light all day long as the sun travels across the sky. Following the sun is what sunflowers are designed to do. However, there are a few of the flowers that look sick and diseased. Their heads droop towards the ground and are not as strong as the others. As you see them, you know immediately that something is not right. It's not the way it's supposed to be.

Likewise, when Jesus was in the world, he told his disciples, "Follow me and I will make you to become fishers of men." Later, he wanted them to understand their commitment to follow was not to be taken lightly when he said, "If anyone would come after me he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me." Following Jesus requires a daily, voluntary, decision. He challenged the masses, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life."

Following the Son… wherever He goes. That's what disciples were made to do. He is the source of light and life. In doing so, we receive energy, strength and power to beautify and bless the world. That is the way it is supposed to be.