The language is startling at first reading, harsh even, for example its stress on ‘hating’ and the need to give up all possessions. The secret is to let the passage speak in our experience of Jesus alive in the world today, and in each of us too, to the extent that we are his presence for others. It will also be a call to conversion, of course, because we’re not often like him.
We note that in the opening verse of the Gospel (Luke 14.25-33) Jesus turned and spoke to the people. He speaks from personal experience. The choices he is asking from his followers he has made himself – and he is glad he did.
We all experience turning points in our lives, when in response to an inner call, we make choices which bring us to a new level of maturity. These moments of grace always involve finding our true identity by renouncing attachments to people, projects, ideas, institutions. We decide to ‘carry our own cross’, to discover our own destiny, the greatness to which we are called. So, we follow Christ in his ways but we make our own decision of ‘why?’. The Holy Spirit will give us the courage and fortitude to leave to one side the things/ feelings/ lovings of this world. So, now we let go of what is not helping us.
Always, we are aware of the fact that Jesus has walked on this road before us. His companionship is always inviting us to keep on going and not be afraid of what/ who we leave to one side. Not in anger but in perseverance.
We cannot discover new oceans and lands unless we dare to lose sight of the shore. We believe in Jesus who believes in us more than we can know – but will be revealed.
May we learn to look at what helps us know Jesus and turn to Him.
With love and prayers Fr Michael