Daily Scripture Reflection & Prayer: October 4, 2023

Date in the Ordine: Memorial of St. Francis of Assisi – Wednesday of 26th Week in Ordinary Time

Scripture Text: 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."

Breaking the text open – background and summary:

The gospel text for today from the Gospel of Luke reminds us of the necessity for conviction to Christ that can withstand challenges and even suffering. Christianity, as we are called to live it, requires of us dedication always, not just when it is convenient. Following Christ doesn’t fit into a schedule, it is the heart of one’s life from which one gains direction.

The first would be disciple gives Christ the opportunity to warn us that following in his footsteps will mean suffering. It is yet another way that Christ told us to be willing to deny ourselves, pick up our crosses and follow Him.

The second would be disciple is a procrastinator. His father has not just died. If he had, this man would not be there listening to a traveling prophet. He is saying, instead, I want to follow you, but not just yet. Jesus is telling Him that now is the very time to decide for Christ and life in Him.

The third would be disciple places earthly relationships ahead of his relationship with the Christ. We know that love of family and our sisters and brothers is a good thing. But our priority must be our relationship with Christ. If that primary and essential relationship is strong, our relationship with our family will also be.

Meditating on the text with personal questions:

Am I truly committed to my life in Christ? Or do I follow as it suits me, conveniently? Am I willing to follow even when it is difficult, inconvenient, involving suffering?

Praying:

LORD, Almighty Father, You sent your beloved Son, Jesus Christ to dwell among us and reveal You to us. His love of You and of us led Him to offer himself as atonement for our sinfulness. He calls us to follow Him to You. Send your Spirit to illuminate our minds, to tenderize our hearts, to strengthen our resolve so that we might be willing and able to deny ourselves, to pick up our crosses, and to follow in His footsteps. We ask this in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with You and the Spirit, one LORD, forever and ever. Amen.