Commentary on the Gospel of

NOVICE MASTER Fr. Johnson Joseph, cmf

The Book of Sirach says, “My son, if you have decided to serve the Lord, prepare yourself for trials. Keep your heart upright and remain resolute” (Sir 2:1-2). Through a concrete life instance Jesus explained the challenges and hurdles that await a disciple of Jesus. The one holds on to one’s own priorities and attachments in life may encounter hindrances to be a true follower of Jesus. Singlemindedness and enthusiasm for the Kingdom are the only requirements for a genuine follower. Jesus had seen our young man’s heart. He hadn’t sat down and counted the cost of becoming a disciple. Instead of admitting him right away, Jesus threw a challenge at him, a provoking thought for his reflection.

Jesus deliberately used the title ‘Son of Man’ to counter the young aspirant’s own ideas of following Jesus. The man was aware of the Messiah of the Scriptures who would be glorious and a conqueror, and was ready to follow him. But he was not prepared to be follower of the Son of Man who would conquer by way of the Cross. Jesus was going to regain the dominion of the world from slavery of sin and death through his suffering and death on the Cross which the would-be follower was unaware of and unwilling for. Jesus was neither harsh nor disrespectful to those who wish to follow him. He just would like to make him realize the true details of the following. It is tough but worth it all.

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