Jesus’ Life: Chapter 9 – The Way To The Cross
If you were told that a friend would suffer a torturous death, how would you react?
After Jesus rebuked Simon Peter for suggesting that his passion and death must not be allowed to happen, He turned to his disciples and said, “If anyone wants to become my follower, he must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me. For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it”.
Jesus was saying to his disciples and all future followers that they must:
“Deny“, – freely give themselves to God.
“Take up His cross”, – gladly bear and endure whatever daily burden is asked.
“Follow me”, – zealously practice Jesus’ Gospel teachings. (Matthew 16:14-28, Mark 8:39-9:1, Luke 9:23-27, John 12:25)
Thought
We can help today’s disciples, our Priests and Religious, in many different ways, not least through our daily prayers.
Reflection
Lord Jesus, grant me the grace of loyalty and perseverance so that I may happily do everything you ask. Amen.
Prayer: Priests and Religious (Cardinal Joseph Bernadin)
Lord of the harvest,
your Word finds a home in our heart,
calls us into community,
and invites us to generous service of the human family.
Bless with courage and spirit your priestly people,
called to full participation in the one Body of Christ.
May many choose to respond in public service
to your call offered in Jesus’ name. Amen.
