At the very end of Sunday’s Gospel, after other disciples have left Jesus because his teachings are difficult, Jesus turns to the Twelve and asks, “Do you also want to leave?”
Jesus gives us a choice—to follow him or not. Following Jesus’ teachings and example isn’t for sissies. Jesus’ way is countercultural. It requires commitment and sometimes results in the pain of rejection. Not everyone is going to understand or agree with our choices. Sometimes, those who don’t agree are members of our own families, our neighbors, friends, and coworkers. We may feel alone in a crowd. The pressure and desire to fit in and belong may sometimes sway us to follow the crowd instead of Jesus.
Jesus knows his way is difficult to follow, and so he gives us the choice. He also welcomes us back if we have strayed from the path.
We pray that you will answer as Simon Peter does, “Master, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.” May that conviction help you hold firm to your beliefs—and give you the strength to share your beliefs in all you say and do.
Image credit: Thomas Nugent/Fork in the road/CC BY-SA 2.0
