Will you follow me? Mercy Meditation for June 26, 2016

"No one who sets a hand to the plow
and looks to what was left behind is fit for the kingdom of God."
 

At first glance, today’s readings seem a bit harsh. Elisha is called to succeed Elijah the prophet quite suddenly. His request to say goodbye to his family is ignored. But ultimately, Elisha’s response to this radical call to discipleship is to accept the challenge and follow Elijah. In the same way, the Gospel reading contains Jesus’s warning to those who participate in the proclamation of the Gospel: they will have nowhere to rest, and must forsake even family duties. Only those who are ready to abandon all for the kingdom are fit to serve God.

 Yet even this harsh warning shows God’s great mercy, because the Lord is preparing His followers for the difficult path ahead. The call to participate in the ministry of Christ is given only to a few, and discernment is necessary before deciding follow Christ in this way. The Lord desires to make them fully aware of all they must give up in accepting a religious vocation. This is why seminarians and religious have such long periods of formation and discernment. They must be prepared for a life unlike any other, a life of hardship and self-sacrifice, but also filled with the greatest love of all: the love of God and service to his people. All those called to serve in this way must respond without reservation. What is truly amazing is that, despite the warnings and the hardships, so many do say “yes.”

 When you hear God’s call, whether to religious life, marriage, or another vocation, are you prepared to give up all else and follow Him? He will give you the grace you need to answer His call, but will not force you to say “yes” – He will always defer to your free will. Whatever path you choose, He will not abandon you but will continue to call you to perfection, if you just listen for His voice in all things.

 

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