saints Jerome, Chrysostom, and Augustine are critical of the scribe in today’s Gospel, observing that his desire to follow Jesus is more of a desire to separate himself from the crowd. In addition, while Jesus’ response to the second man may seem harsh, commentators point out that it is likely that the man’s father is not dead at that moment. Rather he is telling Jesus that ‘down the road’ he will follow Jesus, but right now he will continue with his life and his concerns with worldly affairs.
Jesus’ responses emphasize that being a disciple is living in love with Him. We cannot live such love and commitment when we are consumed with our status, our life and the things of the world. We must detach ourselves from the things of the world and the anxieties they create.
Living in Love with God 
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