By William Selvaraj csc –
Readings: Jas 2: 14-24, 26; Mk 8:34-9:1
The central point of today’s gospel is a saying of Jesus about ‘discipleship’. What does it mean to be a disciple of Jesus? Does it mean to have a comfortable, cozy, and secure life or is it a life of sacrifice, self-emptying, and detachment? Jesus promises nothing but cross and persecution for his followers. The most essential task of every disciple is to follow Christ, at all times, all moments, and in all places.
Jesus invites his disciples to renounce all physical and material attachments in order to enjoy true intimacy with him. When I do everything for the sake of Jesus’ name, I gain everything in Christ. In him, nothing is lost. My starting point for being a disciple is to fall in love with Christ even though it causes me to renounce everything else.
Jesus places two clear conditions for discipleship. When seen from outside, it seems to be easy and fantastic, but once we start practicing those conditions it is very hard and difficult.
First, he challenges us to show preference for him alone. The one who wants to be his disciple should take up his cross and follow him. Any attachment to parents, siblings, property, or anything else will disqualify us from becoming disciples of Jesus. Second condition for discipleship is carrying our crosses.
Our crosses mean denying ourselves, our likes and dislikes, our preferences and priorities, our comforts and conveniences, social status, personal qualities and focus on our Lord. Discipleship costs nothing less than everything. The only attachment we should have is following Jesus. Let us ask grace from the Lord to transform us to be his authentic disciples.