By David Peter csc –
Readings: Naha 2:1, 3; 3:1-3, 6; Mt 6:24-28
In today’s gospel, there are three essential things Jesus is giving us to live a worthy Christian life and to be his disciple. Firstly, one must deny oneself; secondly, one must take up his/her cross; and thirdly, one must follow Jesus Christ radically.
What does self-denial mean to us? It means we need to say ‘no’ to self and its wants and ‘yes’ to God and his will. ‘No’ to self does not mean that we abandon the body and its needs, but to treat the body well and not succumb to the bodily pleasures. The taking up of the cross means that we accept sufferings, challenges, and sacrifices with wholehearted willingness like Jesus accepted the cross in his life. We shall also accept the cross, not some day or in due time, but every day with a new spirit and enthusiasm and renewed in Christ.
To follow Jesus radically demands total obedience to him and dedication to be at the service of the people. We may lose others’ respect, our dignity, and even life itself. The invitation for us today is never to get disappointed. Let us face the challenges of the world with faith and trust in the Lord. Let us pray that we accept the cross and self-denial with a joyful heart to inherit the eternal life and give glory to God both in heaven and on earth.