September 29, 2024
There’s a certain definiteness in the gospel today.
Like a team going on a field to win. We are either with Jesus or against him, and this is proved in our way of life.
Following Jesus does not necessarily mean being different from others.
It means throwing ourselves into the everyday life and needs of people and giving what we can.
It comes out also in public life. We can make our voices heard about issues which deeply affect others, like respecting and protecting life, like ensuring we care for our children in fact as well as in law, legislating wisely about marriage, in how we legislate for the care of our elderly. We may work to free our country from the effects of addiction with drugs and alcohol.
Jesus is asking for a definite way of life and of wanting to make a difference. Faith is more than assent of the mind, but a way of life and of trust – a way of life in not hindering others, but helping with compassion and good deeds. Our way of life is a sharing of faith one to another – “Faith is passed on by contact, from one person to another, just as one candle is lighted from another” – Pope Francis.
The people who make a difference are building blocks rather than stumbling blocks. Every good cause will have its ‘begrudgers’. The apostles themselves were like that and bit by bit realised that following Jesus can be seen in many ways, and in the giving of cold water or hot soup, or in any way, making a big difference in life is being a true follower.
Remember a time you made a difference in someone’s life.
Ask the Lord that we be able to do this again.
Lord, teach me to serve you as you deserve.
