No turning back... no turning back...

When I was a child, and even in my teen years, I often sang a song that was very profound.  Even after I married and worked with children in a youth group... we would sing this song around a campfire or youth meeting.  Many have sung this song without actually counting the cost for what it means.  It has been sung from the lips of people all over the world.  It is a simple song but definitely makes a statement.  

  I have decided to follow Jesus,  

  I have decided to follow Jesus,

  I have decided to follow Jesus,

  No turning back,  no turning back...

I have read that it began circulating among the churches in the United States in the 1950's.  I'm sure that most people did not know the origin of the song,  yet, it became the favorite of many.  It was the follow-up song to many conversions... whether it was a Sunday night church service,  a revival meeting, camp fire gathering, or meetings in general.  

  Tho, none go with me, still I will follow,

  Tho, none go with me, still I will follow,

  Tho, none go with me, still I will follow,

  No turning back, no turning back...

Much to my surprise I found out this song originated in India among the Garo tribe.  The tribe is located in Assam.  It was used among new believers to make a statement of their faith in Christ.  In many tribes, to become a believer of Jesus Christ meant a loss of family,  separation from your loved ones, friends;  and for some, disinheritance.  It could also mean a loss of honor and recognition in the community. 

Having come from a non-Christian family, I could relate in a sense, the choice to follow Jesus... alone.  "Tho, none go with me... still I will follow."  When I accepted Christ, I had counted the cost for several years.  Yet, when my choice and God's will joined together at the same time, the cost did not matter.   Jesus slipped His hand in mine.... and I have never wanted to turn back.  

"When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, "I am the light of the world.  Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life."  John 8:12