These last few weeks we have been hearing readings that speak of the cost of Discipleship in Christ. We have heard about the narrow gate and knocking at the door, hoping to be recognized by God for the use of our time, talent and treasure. We have heard about the storing of riches to be ready for Christ’s return, the first and the last places at the Lord’s table (about humility)—and the Blessed Virgin Mary as the example of saying “yes” to God.
The Gospel stories in these last few weekends have been explicit in what is required of a Disciple of Christ: The Lord is first before all things (even our loved ones); we are asked to take up our cross and to take responsibility for “the particular unfolding of God’s Providence in our life, no matter what that may entail good or ill”; and lastly, to renounce possessions—the false comfort in things. Wow! Add “forgiveness” and “love your enemies” into this “recipe” for Discipleship, and it is obvious how challenging every moment in a life of Christ may be!
Following Jesus is a vocation, a commitment to share the fate of God for the life of the world. We are to allow what God for some reason allows—and uses. We are the leaven, the salt, the remnant and the mustard seed that God uses to transform the world in all the moments of our lives. A dramatic image of what it takes to be usable for God is found in the cross. Accepting all of this does not mean you are automatically going to heaven and others are not; rather, if you live with the understanding of true discipleship, it means you have already entered heaven and thus can see things in a transcendent, whole, and healing way here and now.
The call to Discipleship is an every day, lifelong goal and commitment—not a one-time decision. It is about our priorities and choices in the use of our time, our talents and gifts, our treasure: which are all gifts from God! Now is the time to decide to change: one moment at a time, one step, one day, one ministry, one charity, one church project, but—begin!
Where to begin? Right here, right now─with your family, in your home, and in your St. Aidan Parish Community. Ask yourself how you spend your time. Do you have a particular talent that would be a gift for the Liturgy and our people? Search your heart and sign up!
The Music Ministry is preparing for the new season of singing for the glory of God. It is not (and never) too late to sign up. If you have a musical talent, if you are interested in this ministry and are unsure of your abilities, if you like to sing, come and see me, for as Scripture says: “you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous.” Answer the challenging call to Discipleship; the call to share your gifts!
And Keep Singing! (Or start!)
Elizabeth Dyc
The Gospel stories in these last few weekends have been explicit in what is required of a Disciple of Christ: The Lord is first before all things (even our loved ones); we are asked to take up our cross and to take responsibility for “the particular unfolding of God’s Providence in our life, no matter what that may entail good or ill”; and lastly, to renounce possessions—the false comfort in things. Wow! Add “forgiveness” and “love your enemies” into this “recipe” for Discipleship, and it is obvious how challenging every moment in a life of Christ may be!
Following Jesus is a vocation, a commitment to share the fate of God for the life of the world. We are to allow what God for some reason allows—and uses. We are the leaven, the salt, the remnant and the mustard seed that God uses to transform the world in all the moments of our lives. A dramatic image of what it takes to be usable for God is found in the cross. Accepting all of this does not mean you are automatically going to heaven and others are not; rather, if you live with the understanding of true discipleship, it means you have already entered heaven and thus can see things in a transcendent, whole, and healing way here and now.
The call to Discipleship is an every day, lifelong goal and commitment—not a one-time decision. It is about our priorities and choices in the use of our time, our talents and gifts, our treasure: which are all gifts from God! Now is the time to decide to change: one moment at a time, one step, one day, one ministry, one charity, one church project, but—begin!
Where to begin? Right here, right now─with your family, in your home, and in your St. Aidan Parish Community. Ask yourself how you spend your time. Do you have a particular talent that would be a gift for the Liturgy and our people? Search your heart and sign up!
The Music Ministry is preparing for the new season of singing for the glory of God. It is not (and never) too late to sign up. If you have a musical talent, if you are interested in this ministry and are unsure of your abilities, if you like to sing, come and see me, for as Scripture says: “you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous.” Answer the challenging call to Discipleship; the call to share your gifts!
And Keep Singing! (Or start!)
Elizabeth Dyc
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