Gospel MT 16:24-28
Jesus said to his disciples,
“Whoever wishes to come after me must deny himself,
take up his cross, and follow me.
For whoever wishes to save his life will lose it,
but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it.
What profit would there be for one to gain the whole world
and forfeit his life?
Or what can one give in exchange for his life?
For the Son of Man will come with his angels in his Father’s glory, and then he will repay each according to his conduct.
Amen, I say to you, there are some standing here
who will not taste death until they see the Son of Man coming in his Kingdom.”

Reflection:

Jesus said to his disciples, “Whoever wishes to come after me must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me.”
So, what would it mean to follow Jesus Christ?
It would mean a life of going against our human nature, a life of self-denial, a life of putting others before self.
Quite frankly, on the surface that doesn’t sound very appealing.
So, I ask myself, if self sacrifice is not appealing, why is it that the people I most admire are those who spend their life serving others?
Mother Teresa and Pope Francis are two examples of people who have inspired me with their giving hearts. I am drawn and intrigued by the joy and peace of heart that emanates from them.
Joy and peace of heart and mind is what we all seek and hope to attain.
But, joy and peace of heart and mind cannot be purchased or given to us by the things of this world.
Jesus said: “I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.” John 10:10
We can only achieve the abundant life, a life of joy and peace of heart and mind, by giving of ourselves for the sake of others, looking for nothing in return.
“When you give and share and expect something in return, like a compliment, a simple thanks, a favor or whatever it is, then you are not really loving. You are actually doing business. Why? Because business is about expecting returns. Love simply delights in giving and sharing unconditionally.” Joel Randymar