COUNTING THE COST Once baptised you become an official “disciple” of Jesus Christ. In many parts of Ireland a popular name for baptism is “Christening”, which means making a person an official Christian. Today’s Gospel lists some qualities of a Christian or disciple. The first thing we are told is that Jesus began his journey to Jerusalem and crucifixion. To show his determination Luke describes him as ‘cementing his face’ towards that city and death. Christ followers must be as committed as Jesus in following the way determined for them. Second point is that as Jesus was rejected by the Samaritans because of religious bigotry, so the disciple must expect rejection because of the religion that he/she follows. The third point is that Christians must not expect any privileges or favours because of religion. Anger and retaliation must be avoided and peace and love are the proper reactions. The fourth point calls for the disciple who is totally dedicated to Jesus and his journey to expect nothing in return. The fifth point is that a follower must be prompt in doing his service as a disciple. Sixth point: An essential aspect of discipleship is proclaiming the kingdom of God and helping people to give up sin and live as citizens of heaven. There is nothing more important in life than this. The final point, spoken by Jesus to a man who was prepared to follow but under his own conditions, was that the total commitment of discipleship does not tolerate any looking back or deviating from the way. Discipleship costs no less than everything. Read full commentary by Fr. Paschal Tiernan at stmarys–tallaght.ie.
Posted on: Sun, 30 Jun 2013 08:35:13 +0000