Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

In today’s Gospel (Luke 14:25–33), Jesus challenges us with strong words: “Whoever does not carry his cross and come after me cannot be my disciple.” He speaks about the cost of discipleship, reminding us that following Him is not a casual choice but a radical commitment. Just as someone planning to build a tower must first calculate the cost, so must we consider what it truly means to live as disciples.

Our Lord is not discouraging us but inviting us into freedom. To “renounce” possessions and put Him first does not mean despising the good things of life, but rather keeping them in their proper order. When God is first, everything else finds its rightful place. When we put Christ at the center, even the crosses we carry become occasions of grace.

This week, let us ask ourselves: what are the things that weigh us down or keep us from fully following Christ? May we have the courage to reorder our lives so that nothing comes before our love for Him.

Love,

Fr. Jason