Last week, I was reminded of a powerful story about Randy Alcorn, the author of many books including the one we prescribe called “Heaven”. In the late 1980s, as a pastor deeply convicted about the sanctity of human life, Randy participated in nonviolent protests at abortion clinics. This led to multiple arrests and, eventually, massive legal judgments against him.

When ordered to pay damages that would fund the very practices he opposed, Randy made an extraordinary decision. Rather than compromise his convictions, he resigned from his pastoral position, surrendered his assets, and lived on minimum wage for years. He looked foolish to many. He walked away from financial security and a comfortable ministry position for what he believed was right.

But, here’s the thing about true revolution – it rarely looks sensible to everyone else.

This challenges me deeply because comfort is so seductive. We naturally gravitate toward paths of least resistance in our leadership journeys. We want to make an impact without too much disruption to our lives. We want transformation without the messiness.

Yet, Jesus couldn’t have been clearer in Mark 8:34: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.”

Think about what those words meant to His original audience. The cross wasn’t a piece of jewelry or a metaphor for minor inconvenience – it was an instrument of public execution and shame. Jesus was essentially saying, “Follow me, and be willing to look foolish in the eyes of the world.”

This principle runs throughout Jesus’ teachings. “Love your enemies.” “The first shall be last.” “Blessed are the poor in spirit.” None of these align with conventional wisdom. They’re revolutionary concepts that often make us appear foolish to a watching world.

God’s economy often operates in direct opposition to worldly systems. What looks like weakness is often strength. What appears foolish might contain the deepest wisdom.

I’ve seen this play out in my own journey. Some of the most significant Kingdom impact in my life has come through decisions that appeared nonsensical on paper or my spreadsheets. Leaving corporate security to focus on my calling looked financially irresponsible to some. But God had a bigger plan that I couldn’t have accessed through conventional paths.

Randy Alcorn’s story didn’t end with financial loss and public scrutiny. Out of that season came Eternal Perspective Ministries, dozens of powerful books, and millions in royalties directed toward Kingdom causes. What looked like career suicide became a platform for extraordinary impact.

This is the paradox of revolutionary faith – what appears to be losing your life is actually finding it. What seems like foolishness to the world is wisdom to God.

So, here’s my challenge to you: Where might God be calling you to holy revolution? What conventional wisdom might He be asking you to reject? What comfortable position might He be asking you to risk?

Take time and ask Jesus, “What are you calling me to be a revolutionary in?” Then listen carefully. The answer might sound foolish at first – but it might just be the doorway to your greatest Kingdom impact.

Because sometimes, looking foolish in the eyes of the world means you’re right on track with heaven’s agenda.

Are you ready to be that kind of revolutionary?

In your corner,
Jeff

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