St. Stephen Church at 6044 SW 19th Street, Miramar, FL 33023 US - Weekly Reflection from the Archbishop's Office
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Weekly Reflection from the Archbishop's Office |
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This is another Lucan passage on the cost of discipleship. Today, Jesus addresses the “crowds,” not just the disciples, and in a dramatic way explains what following him entails. His words are an example of “Semitic exaggeration”, a method used frequently by teachers to stress a point. In this case, Jesus is saying that anyone or anything that stands in the way of following him must be left behind. The word “hate” should not be taken in the context of today’s culture. “Hate” in this sense means “prefer less.”* The Book of Acts, also written by Luke described the early community as people who had everything in common... (See Acts 2:44-45) This first Christians expected the quick arrival of the reign of God. It is helpful to read today’s passage in this historical context.
The two stories about the builder and the king highlight the necessity to be well prepared before undertaking a project. Being Jesus’ disciple is a difficult enterprise and he wants to make sure that those who say yes are willing to see it through.
