“As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance. But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do.” (1 Peter 1:14-15)
For today’s readings, consult AELF – May 28, 2024
“Whoever has left everything for my sake will receive eternal life.” This might sound like a transaction, but happiness cannot be bargained. God made us to be happy, but we must leave behind what separates us from Him: leave everything.
If we discover ourselves as poor before God, it is to return to our original state, when we came naked from the hands of God. Salvation, like creation, is always grace.
The gospel reading makes us reflect on what it means to be disciples of Christ. Following Jesus is multifaceted yet simple.
It means being reborn according to the Spirit, living a vibrant faith that allows us to see every person as a child of God, a sister or brother. It means acting as those already resurrected. Some of Jesus’ words are understood in this perspective:
“No one who has left home or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or fields for me and the gospel will fail to receive a hundred times as much in this present age: homes, brothers, sisters, mothers, children and fields—along with persecutions—and in the age to come eternal life.” (Mark 10:29-30)
The last part of the verse is troubling: why persecutions?
Because the presence and way of life of Christians are not always well received. Following Jesus and living His message brings much happiness, peace, and strength, but it can also bring misunderstanding and contempt.
Today, let us ask for the strength to follow Jesus joyfully, confident that He will take care of us in all circumstances. May our faith, hope, and love be broad and generous.
The path will indeed bring difficulties and trials, but we are not alone in facing them.
1 Peter 1:10-16 / Mark 10:28-31
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