Thirteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time
1Kgs.19:16, 19-21 | Ps 16:1-2, 5, 7-11 | Gal 5:1, 13-18 | Lk 9:51-62
We are called to freedom, a freedom which recognizes God’s gentle care for each person. God calls Elisha through Elijah. When Elisha asks for time to finalize his affairs, he is given the time. Paul tells us that we have been called to freedom. This gift is given so that we will love God and others. It is the gift given to us to live by the Spirit. Jesus is going to Jerusalem with His Apostles, and they passed through Samaria on the way. However, they could not obtain hospitality to stay overnight because the Samaritans would not help those who were on their way to Jerusalem. We hear several short dialogues with Jesus while on this road. He reminds us that to follow Him, one must be free and realize that one might not know where they would stay or what they would eat. In addition, one must be willing to follow Christ and not have any excuses for delaying this decision.
How free are you to follow Christ? Are you willing to put Christ first and not be concerned about food, shelter, etc.? As you live each day, do you find excuses for not living as a Christian? Take time to find a way to follow Christ. Ask for the grace of freedom in so doing.