The pandemic reminds us that we are not in control. That we were never in control. Discipleship is about learning to be ok with not being in control and, therefore, to become comfortable following.

God is in control. We follow Jesus. That realization makes all the difference.

Discipleship is the practice of giving control to God. Of learning lessons of receiving grace, accepting what we cannot change, and putting our hope in something more secure, permanent, and unwavering than the things of this world.

Discipleship means learning to become more like Jesus and following him.

Discipleship can be the work of this time. It can be what helps us as we emerge from the pandemic.

It is my prayer that we will seek to become his disciples.

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David E. Gray serves as senior pastor of Bradley Hills Presbyterian Church in Bethesda, Maryland.