The Radical Call to Follow Jesus: Letting Go and Trusting God

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. The Meaning of Following Jesus
3. The Difficulties of Following Jesus
4. Putting Jesus First in Our Lives
5. Discerning God's Call
6. The Importance of Commitment
7. Letting Go and Trusting God
8. The Call to Holiness
9. Listening to God's Nudges
10. Conclusion

Following Jesus: Embracing the Call and Commitment 💫

Introduction

In the Gospel of Luke, as Jesus sets his face like flint towards Jerusalem, he exemplifies unwavering commitment to fulfilling the Father's will. He encounters individuals who express their desire to follow him, and Jesus responds in various ways, offering profound insights into the meaning and challenges of discipleship. In this article, we will explore the significance of following Jesus, the difficulties that may arise, and the importance of putting Jesus first in our lives.

The Meaning of Following Jesus

When one man expresses his willingness to follow Jesus wherever he goes, Jesus emphasizes the lack of worldly security that comes with discipleship. He states that even foxes have dens and birds have nests, but the Son of Man has nowhere to lay his head. This highlights the call to offer complete trust and reliance on Jesus for true security. Following Jesus requires letting go of the need for worldly comforts and fully embracing a life dedicated to fulfilling God's will.

The Difficulties of Following Jesus

Another individual asks to first bury his father before committing to follow Jesus. However, Jesus responds with the enigmatic phrase, "Let the dead bury their dead." Although burying the dead is considered a sacred act, Jesus emphasizes that following him takes precedence over all else. He invites us to choose his path, for he is the way to life and resurrection. Jesus challenges us to prioritize his call above even the most sacred aspects of our lives, recognizing that any hesitance to respond to his call may lead to spiritual deadness.

Putting Jesus First in Our Lives

The discipleship call requires us to place Jesus above all else. The author shares a personal example of being called to the priesthood despite initial resistance from friends who feared the loss of companionship and perceived lack of fun. Embracing the call to priesthood brought immense joy and fulfillment, underscoring the importance of putting Jesus first in one's life. This prioritization applies not only to vocations but also to marriages, wherein the commitment made at the beginning must be upheld, ensuring that spouses continuously choose their shared path with Jesus.

Discerning God's Call

God calls each of us to unique paths, be it through religious life, marriage, or other vocations. Baptismal call reminds us of the universal call to holiness, while also inviting us to discover the unique way God desires to work through us. Embracing this call involves letting go of all that impedes our response, focusing on the passion and love God has instilled in our hearts. By discerning and committing to God's call, we can unleash our full potential in fulfilling the purpose He has created for us.

The Importance of Commitment

Commitment lies at the heart of discipleship. The author highlights the significance of remaining steadfast, using the imagery of putting our hand to the plow without ever looking back. Through commitment, doubts and hesitations are weakened, allowing our journey with Jesus to flourish. The author reflects on personal struggles during the final year of seminary, where an acceptance to put his hand to the plow, never to question or doubt his decision again, brought clarity and peace.

Letting Go and Trusting God

Individuals often face moments where they question their chosen path, be it in priestly life or marriage. However, this is precisely where Jesus' words come into play, encouraging us to recall the commitment made and choose to let go of doubts. The author emphasizes the importance of trusting God's plan and letting the call to discipleship take precedence. By embracing this mindset, one can navigate the challenges and uncertainties that arise, knowing that God's path is ultimately the source of true fulfillment.

The Call to Holiness

Beyond specific vocations, the call to holiness unifies all believers. While each person may have a unique call within their vocation, the common thread remains striving for holiness and becoming the person God intended us to be. It requires a willingness to let go of anything that hinders our journey and to prioritize God's will above all else. The author acknowledges the practical example of attending Mass on Sundays as a conscious choice to prioritize God and invites readers to similarly respond to the nudges of God throughout their day.

Listening to God's Nudges

God continuously prompts us in various ways, urging us towards the path He has set for us. These gentle nudges may come during moments of prayer, encounters with others, or even in our daily routines. The author underscores the importance of responding to these nudges promptly and wholeheartedly. By actively seeking to align our lives with God's will, we grow in our discipleship and become more attuned to the unique call within the call that God has for each of us.

Conclusion

Following Jesus is a transformative journey that requires unwavering commitment and prioritization. It demands letting go of the securities and distractions of the world and placing Jesus at the center of our lives. Whether called to religious life, marriage, or another vocation, our response to God's call should be wholehearted, echoing the sentiment of putting our hand to the plow and never looking back. By embracing this call, we embark on a path of holiness and discover the fulfillment that comes from living in accordance with God's will.

Highlights:

• Understanding the meaning of following Jesus and the challenges it brings.
• Embracing the call to discipleship requires prioritizing Jesus above all else.
• Letting go of worldly comforts and security to trust in Jesus' guidance.
• Discerning God's unique call within our vocations and lives.
• The significance and power of unwavering commitment in our journey with Jesus.
• How to navigate doubts and challenges by letting go and trusting in God.
• The universal call to holiness and the importance of personal holiness within our specific vocations.
• Responding to God's nudges and choosing to follow His guidance.
• The joy and fulfillment that come from living in alignment with God's will.
• The role of Mass and other spiritual practices in prioritizing our relationship with Jesus.

FAQs

Q: Can I follow Jesus and still maintain a comfortable lifestyle? A: Following Jesus often requires letting go of the comforts and securities of the world. While it doesn't mean a life of destitution, it calls for a willingness to prioritize Jesus above material possessions and embrace a mindset of selflessness and simplicity.

Q: How do I discern God's call in my life? A: Discerning God's call requires prayer, seeking wise counsel, and attentiveness to God's nudges. It is often a process of self-reflection and listening to the desires and passions that God has placed in your heart.

Q: What if I have doubts about my chosen path of discipleship? A: Doubts are natural and can arise at any time. It is important to remember the commitment made and seek God's guidance through prayer and spiritual direction. Trusting in God's plan and letting go of doubts will allow you to move forward with confidence.

Q: Can I pursue my unique call within the call while fulfilling my daily responsibilities? A: Yes, absolutely! God's call within the call can be lived out in every aspect of our lives, including our daily responsibilities. By prioritizing and integrating our God-given passions and gifts into our daily lives, we can fulfill both our unique calling and our responsibilities.

Q: How can I ensure that I am following God's will for my life? A: Trusting in God's guidance, seeking His wisdom, and remaining open to His nudges are key in following His will. Regular prayer, reflection, and a willingness to let go of our own desires will help us align our lives with His plan.

Q: Can I change my vocation or path of discipleship if I feel called to do so? A: While changing one's vocation or path of discipleship is a deeply personal decision, it is important to approach it with prayer and discernment. Seeking spiritual guidance and seeking signs of affirmation from God can provide clarity in making such a decision.