In the Name of Christ and His Gospel!

Tuesday, May 28, 2024

1 Pt 1:10-16; Mk 10:28-31

Today’s Gospel highlights discipleship as a privilege and a challenge.

The privilege of following Jesus is about having a share in his life. Jesus was an itinerant preacher, and if not for the generous support and hospitality of the people in different towns and cities, his lifestyle and that of his disciples would not have worked at all. 

Similarly, wherever Jesus went, he was given a hero’s welcome. His fame was so widespread that people were looking forward to his arrival or wished to have him with them. He was celebrated as a prophet, and there were efforts to make him a king. 

However, that is not all!

The very people who shouted ‘Hosanna’ later cried out, ‘Crucify him.’

Again, the challenge in following Jesus is about having a share in his life. If Jesus was hated, we would be hated for the sake of his name and his Gospel. 

In sum, our lives and challenges are not estranged from the life of Jesus but fused with it. 

Though our persecution comes from humans, our reward comes from God. 

The fact that we enjoy privileges or face challenges in the name of Christ is what makes us his disciples.

Fr. Dhinakaran Savariyar