I will follow you wherever you go. Luke 9:57
Two words come to mind in reflecting on this Gospel: “urgency” and “sacrifice.” Jesus is saying: Following me is so urgent that it allows no delay, and it calls for sacrifice. Yes, he’s using hyperbole, but he’s trying to make us think. He usually had a place to stay, but he couldn’t always count on it. Neither can the disciples always expect to be welcomed and appreciated. Burying one’s parent is a serious religious duty; so is maintaining family ties. But being a disciple and proclaiming the Gospel is even more important.
We are called today to renew our commitment to follow Christ along that journey—and embrace the urgency and sacrifice that go with it. But don’t forget the other side: the good news. When we accept the urgency and sacrifice, then we discover the satisfactions, the deep joys of being a disciple that far outweigh the burdens. No product can give a warranty like that. And that is why Christianity has not died out.
Lord Jesus, renew my commitment to be your faithful disciple, no matter the cost.
Fr. Martin Pable, O.F.M. Cap.
Originally published October 3, 2012
