REFLECTIONS TODAY

In the call of the first disciples, it is Jesus who takes the initiatives. This is true of the four fishermen—Simon, Andrew, James, and John—and of the tax collector Levi (Matthew). Jesus will later say, “It was not you who chose me, but I who chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit that will remain” (Jn 15:16). Later in his public ministry, some individuals volunteer to follow Jesus, attracted by his power and authority, and desirous of having a place in his messianic kingdom. But on the journey to Jerusalem, Jesus has intimated that persecution and suffering await him there. Will they be willing to share his life of precariousness, severity, and unconditional trust in God?

“Foxes have dens and birds of the sky have nests,” says Jesus (v 58). God’s providence sees to it that animals have places for safety and havens for their young. “As the sparrow finds a home and the swallow a nest to settle her young… by your altars, Lord of hosts...” (Ps 84:4). Human beings have homes to rest and enjoy family life. But Jesus, as an itinerant preacher, gives up a home of his own: “The Son of Man has nowhere to rest his head” (v 58). In turn, the would-be disciple should be willing to share Jesus’ lot. But God will provide for his faithful ones, even as he feeds the birds of the sky and clothes the wild flowers (Mt 6:26-29).

Gospel • Luke 9:57-62 

As Jesus and his disciples were proceeding on their journey, someone said to him, “I will follow you wherever you go.” Jesus answered him, “Foxes have dens and birds of the sky have nests, but the Son of Man has nowhere to rest his head.” And to another he said, “Follow me.” But he replied, “Lord, let me go first and bury my father.” But he answered him, “Let the dead bury their dead. But you, go and proclaim the Kingdom of God.” And another said, “I will follow you, Lord, but first let me say farewell to my family at home.” Jesus answered him, “No one who sets a hand to the plow and looks to what was left behind is fit for the Kingdom of God.”

Source: “365 Days with the Lord 2023,” St. Paul’s, 7708 St. Paul Rd., SAV, Makati City (Phils.); Tel.: 632-895-9701; E-mail: [email protected]; Website: http://www.stpauls.ph.