This morning Sister and I went to Holy Mass at St. Mary’s, and it felt like we got a double dose of what following Jesus really means. Father LeRoy gave his homily, and then later we listened to Bishop Barron’s words on the same Gospel. Both were so strong and clear, like being shaken awake.
The reading was from St. Luke, chapter 14. Jesus told the crowd that anyone who wants to follow Him must be willing to give up everything—even family and even their own life. At first, my heart jumped when I heard it. How could I not love Sister, or Mini, or even Omelette my hen? But Father explained that Jesus isn’t asking us to stop loving them—He’s asking us to love Him first, and to hold nothing back. Bishop Barron said it’s like shock therapy, and I think he’s right. It shakes me into realizing that following Jesus isn’t just about obeying the rules, but giving Him everything, even the deepest part of my heart.
After Mass, as we walked home down the gravel road, Sister said it’s like learning to carry our crosses. It isn’t always easy, but when we give ourselves fully to Jesus, He gives us back even more than we let go of. That made me think of how the cave by Indian Creek was once just a dark, empty place, but when I gave it to Jesus and Mary in my prayers, it became my secret sanctuary.
Evening Prayer:
Dear Jesus, thank You for showing me what true discipleship means. Help me not to be afraid of giving You everything, even when it feels hard. Teach me to put You above all things, so that my love for Sister, Mini, and all my dear ones will be even more true. Lead me on Your path and let me never grow tired of following You.
Amen.
Love, Kathy
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