Being a disciple of Jesus is paradoxical on many levels. While Christ's commands are much deeper and weightier than the legalistic regulations of the religious leaders, His yoke is easy and His burden, light. While the cost of discipleship is significant, the cost of not following Jesus is actually much greater. The same is true with self-denial. Indulging oneself does not result in true joy or lasting pleasure while denying self and following Jesus brings relief, eternal pleasure and genuine joy.