We are a joyful community of disciples proclaiming the Good News and inviting all people to encounter the love and mercy of Jesus Christ.
"In the same way, every one of you who does not renounce all his possessions cannot be my disciple."
(Luke 14:33)
Are We Committed?
You’d be forgiven for thinking that Jesus got up on the wrong side of the bed the morning he said the words Luke records for us in today’s Gospel reading (Luke 14:25-33). To many, they may appear overly demanding and even harsh.
Keep in mind that Jesus is on his way to Jerusalem and knows that he is traveling toward his death. With that in mind, we can see that Jesus is offering a practical warning. If you stay with me, it’s going to get rough. Decide now. Count the cost now. Don’t follow me into Jerusalem if you’re not 100% committed.
Our situation is different of course, but the question is still valid. Are we 100% committed to being a disciple of Jesus? Please don’t be too quick with an answer. We may be doing well in some areas of our lives and allow that success to hide an area in which we are faltering. Do we handle our money as Jesus teaches? Do we love our enemies as Jesus teaches? Do we believe the biblical command to never lie for any reason?
These are hard questions. They’re also life-changing questions. May we all strive to that 100% commitment that Jesus demands.
Keep in mind that Jesus is on his way to Jerusalem and knows that he is traveling toward his death. With that in mind, we can see that Jesus is offering a practical warning. If you stay with me, it’s going to get rough. Decide now. Count the cost now. Don’t follow me into Jerusalem if you’re not 100% committed.
Our situation is different of course, but the question is still valid. Are we 100% committed to being a disciple of Jesus? Please don’t be too quick with an answer. We may be doing well in some areas of our lives and allow that success to hide an area in which we are faltering. Do we handle our money as Jesus teaches? Do we love our enemies as Jesus teaches? Do we believe the biblical command to never lie for any reason?
These are hard questions. They’re also life-changing questions. May we all strive to that 100% commitment that Jesus demands.
Am I ready to renounce all my possessions for the sake of the kingdom?
Lord, give me the courage to follow you, no matter the cost. Amen.
Reflection by:
Father Kevin Yarnell is currently pastor at St. Anne Catholic Church in Ruskin. He also previously held an assignment as pastor at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Pinellas Park.