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SUNDAY’S GOSPEL—August 22, 2021 – 21st Sunday in Ordinary Time

SUNDAY’S GOSPEL—August 22, 2021 – 21st Sunday in Ordinary Time

Para la versión en español, haga clic aquí.

John 6:60–69

Many [of] his disciples returned to their former way of life and no longer accompanied him. –John 6:66

Imagine walking out on Jesus. After a heyday of signs, miracles, and proclamations, something he says is so shocking that you count yourself out. You go home, shake the dust off your sandals, and return to business as usual. So much for the dream of a better kingdom!

Yet how many of us do exactly this? This discipleship stuff requires time, attention, study, and prayer. It invites us into relationships, service, responsibility, and commitment.

It demands, over time, that we’re transformed into new people entirely—the kind who forgive wrongs, aid the poor, welcome the stranger, love our enemies. At what point will we decide that following Jesus is asking too much and return to a way of life that’s easier and leaves more for us?

Attending synagogue on Saturdays was more convenient than traipsing around Galilee and reexamining their assumptions and values. Religion is easy. Discipleship is overwhelming. Do we draw the line between the two and remain on the safe side?

When did being faithful become more than going to church for you? How far are you willing to take your journey with Jesus?

Image credit: Good News Productions International and College Press Publishing

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