Show Don't Tell: Matthew 8:18-22

Instead of saying "Jesus taught about the cost of discipleship," hear the eager volunteer deflated. A teacher of the law approaches: "Teacher, I will follow you wherever you go." Enthusiastic. Committed. Ready to sign up. Jesus' response is cold water: "Foxes have dens and birds have nests, but the Son of Man has no place to lay his head." The Messiah is homeless. Another disciple asks for a reasonable delay: "Lord, first let me go and bury my father." Sacred duty. Unquestionable priority. But Jesus: "Follow me, and let the dead bury their own dead." Shocking. Almost offensive. But the point lands: following Jesus requires immediate, total priority. The dead can handle funerals; the living must follow the Life.