None of you can be my disciple unless he gives up all his possession

Wis. 9:13-18, Phlm 9:10.12-17, Lk. 14:25-33. On this Twenty Third Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C, the Church invites us to reflect on the spirit of commitment and self-sacrifice of Christ. Today’s first reading draws our attention to the depth of the wisdom of God which helps us to penetrate into the mystery of God’s intention revealed in Christ. In this way, this mystery becomes spirit and life for us. In the second reading, Paul sent Onesimus back to Philemon to accept him in the spirit of sacrifice. Although Paul needed Onesimus and had every right to retain him, he allowed him to return to his former master Philemon who equally needed him. Philemon had to drop all his misgivings against Onesimus. So, he was admonished to receive Onesimus as a brother rather than as a slave. Hence, Paul teaches us that we can equally sacrifice our own comfort in order to restore that of others. Also, we must be ready to make some sacrifices in order to repair and restore relationships.

In today’s Gospel, Jesus invites us to imbibe His spirit of commitment and sacrifice in order to be His true disciples. By carrying our cross and following Christ also means subduing our own will in order to do His Will. That is, being ready to give up anything. Without commitment and sacrifice, we remain attached to our will and so, cannot be true disciples of Christ. Without it, we cannot see the needs of others. Commitment and sacrifice help us to give up anything in order to gain all. It disposes us to be better disciples of Christ. It helps us to be better husbands, wives, parents and children. It helps us to be better leaders and servants. In the spirit of commitment and sacrifice, the wisdom of God becomes fully alive and active in us. It also helps us deepen our trust in God’s divine providence and protection.

May the Lord continue to guide us and journey with us, as we strive to carry up our crosses with Him, entrusting ourselves completely in His hands! Amen!! Good morning and Happy Sunday!!!