By Fr Donald Butler
It's a pleasure to be here with so many familiar faces I've met over the years during my ministry in Toronto. This community holds a special place in my heart, and as we embark on this journey together, I pray for God's blessing as you discern your next incumbent.
A Pivotal Moment in Our Journey
Today, I want us to pause and reflect on the gospel reading from St. Luke's Gospel, chapter nine, verses 51 to 62. We find Jesus at a pivotal moment in his ministry, a time of transition and change. This moment was significant, leading to something rewarding and exceptional, not only for those during His time but also for us today.
When Jesus turned toward Jerusalem, the spiritual center, He faced a path of suffering and death but ultimately one of resurrection and glory. As we consider our own periods of pivot, I ask you: what do you want to achieve? Where will you turn your head? What is it that you are searching for?
Followers with Zest: The Disciples' Zeal
In this passage, Jesus interacts with two groups. The first is His disciples, such as James and John, who were fiercely loyal. When a Samaritan town rejected Jesus, they wanted to call down fire in retaliation. But Jesus rebuked them, teaching that His kingdom is one of love, not violence. The willingness of the disciples to learn from their mistakes serves as an example for us all. No matter where we stand in our spiritual journey, Jesus is there to guide us.
A Call to Total Commitment
The narrative shifts when three individuals either declare or are invited to follow Jesus. The first individual expresses eagerness to follow Jesus, but Jesus responds that even animals have homes, emphasizing the discomfort and uncertainty they must be willing to endure. This reminds us that to truly embrace Jesus, we must be prepared for unpredictability.
The second person wished to bury his father before following Jesus, to which Jesus responded, "Let the dead bury their own dead." This may seem harsh, but during that time, burial could be delayed indefinitely. Jesus emphasized the urgency and immediacy in the call to follow Him.
Finally, a third person wanted to say goodbye before committing to Jesus. But Jesus’ response highlights that true commitment must prioritize moving forward without looking back.
Two Paths: Commitment or Hesitation
We are presented with a choice in this scripture: a path of wholehearted commitment, passion, and willingness to follow Jesus without conditions, or a path cluttered with excuses and divided attention. Jesus isn't calling perfect people; He’s calling committed ones, those ready to walk this path with all of their imperfections.
Walking with Jesus Today
In our modern world, following Jesus means building a relationship rooted in trust and faith amidst uncertainty. It means serving others, reflecting His love in our communities, and allowing His teachings to guide our actions. The challenges we encounter can test our faith, but perseverance leads to a deeper understanding of His purpose for us.
The choice is ours to embrace a journey marked by devotion, even as we stumble and learn. Jesus calls us not tomorrow, but now—to walk with Him imperfect as we are. May we choose to serve Him with unwavering faith and undeterred spirit.
Amen.