Follow Me

Jesus once said: “Those who want to be my followers, must deny themselves, take us their cross and follow me. For those who want to save their life will lose it, and those who lose their life for my sake will find it.” (Matthew 16:24-25)

When we follow Jesus, sometimes we are going to find ourselves following him into places of brokenness and suffering.

I remember listening to an interview with a Catholic Priest in the Philippines after the devastating Typhoon Haiyan has just wreaked havoc. The church building was gone, and the priest was asked why he didn’t leave. He said the church is not the building. I’m here to help the people. I tell them – If you find someone from your family who’s been missing, and you are rejoicing – then my heart rejoices with you. But, If you are suffering, I suffer with you. If you are hungry, I’ll help you find food. But, I am not leaving. I am here with you.

I heard that – and I thought – that sounds like Christ. If you’re suffering – he’s suffering with you… That is part of what we learn through the cross.

Part of what Jesus taught us is that the greatest meaning and joy and hope come from giving away life for the sake of others, helping others, sharing with others in the most difficult times.

Jesus left this world knowing full well what it meant to be betrayed, to suffer, and even to give his life for something greater. And he left us with the promise that he would forever be with us in our own struggles and suffering.

But he also invited us to follow him… And in following him, to find the fullness of life.

Let us pray: God of Grace, thank you for walking with us even through the darkest moments of life. May your Spirit continue to heal us, forgive us, lead us, and inspire us to follow; through Christ our Lord. Amen.