Discipleship – the sequel. As I mentioned in my last homily, Christian discipleship means following Jesus and imitating his life. But sometimes discipleship can be in the “too hard” pile of things to do. Because for me, what makes discipleship hard is giving God control. I don’t have the power to change much in my life – health, appearance, wounds, how others treat me. However, I do have the power to let God fill me with the Holy Spirit so I can bring others closer to Jesus. But doing so can mean sacrificing personal plans, forgiving a grudge, and loving someone who is ungrateful or maybe hurts me. Being a disciple of Jesus Christ means doing this every day of my life. How is that ever possible?!
Discipleship is not a marathon; it’s a relationship. Sure, St. Paul said “I fought the good fight and finished the race.” But he also said through it all, “I have kept the faith.” [2 Timothy 4:7]. So, to make it as a disciple we must remember Jesus promises to be with us, and bear every burden with us, every step of the way – every day of our life. I wish more people knew that, by the grace of the Holy Spirit, Jesus truly lives in every Christian’s heart. He is not there to judge or measure our production; all he wants to do is love us. The key to receiving this love is to surrender, saying, “I give up, Jesus, I’ll do it your way: I cannot be happy unless you fill me.” If we ask the Father for this gift in Christ’s name, God will grant it and much more.
So, as we look ahead to this coming week, may we pray for the patience to bear the hardships that come our way, hope in the joy that awaits us at the end of our trials, and trust in knowing Jesus is with us through it all. Then, show others how they can do the same.
Deacon John Adapted from FaithND.edu - May 10, 2024
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