Rom. 13:8-10 | Ps. 112:1-2, 4-5, 9 | Lk. 14:25-33

Today’s readings bring us in contact with what is necessary to be a disciple and to enjoy the fullness of the kingdom.  Paul tells us that love is the essential quality of the disciple.  Those who wish to be disciples must be lovers.  To love beyond all things is essential. This love is willing to  forgive all and to endure all things.  Love fulfills the law of God.

Jesus takes us a few steps further when He tells us that if we love God, then we must be willing to walk the path God has chosen for us.  That is, to take up our cross and to follow Him.  This does not necessarily mean that we will be crucified.  It may be as simple as enduring the negativity of others or pursuing a path of justice despite the ridicule of others. It may simply be smiling and cheering someone else when we really don’t feel like doing so.

Consider the call to love and to follow Christ on this path.  How magnanimous is your loving?  Do you gift others with love even when you feel slighted?  Find one way to express love today.