It is easy to reduce Jesus to a wise teacher whose words simply offer good advice for living. When that happens, Christianity becomes little more than an inspirational message urging us to be kind and do good.
But today’s Gospel reminds us that Jesus is far more than a teacher. He is the Son of God. His words are truth, and His call is nothing less than an invitation to become the beloved sons and daughters of the Father. He calls us to live by God’s standards, not the world’s, and He gives us the grace to do so.
St. Ignatius of Antioch wrote, “Follow the ways of God… love one another always in Jesus Christ.” That kind of love cannot be sustained by willpower alone. Left to ourselves, we grow weary and discouraged. But when we remain close to Christ in prayer, the Scriptures, and the sacraments, He strengthens us to persevere and to live faithfully as His beloved children.

Leave a comment