As I read today’s Gospel, these words of Jesus deeply resonated in me: “It is enough for the disciple that he become like his teacher.” I think that in these words, Jesus sets the ultimate goal of discipleship for us: to become like Him.
In Mt 11: 29, Jesus says: “Take my yoke and learn from me for I am meek and humble of heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” Aspiring to be like Jesus carries a deep spiritual significance. It invites us into a transformative journey of faith, sacrifice, and growing closer to God.
The German theologian, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, in his book The Cost of Discipleship, talks about what it means to be a disciple of Jesus in his time marked by the Nazi regime. He distinguishes between “cheap grace” – grace without discipleship, sacrifice, or a true relationship with Jesus Christ – and “costly grace” – which demands a response, obedience, and sacrifice. As Bonhoeffer writes, “When Christ calls a man, he bids him to come and die.” It is the teaching of St Paul in Romans 6:8.
Embracing the Teacher’s Path
As disciples of Christ, we are called to walk the path He trod, a path marked by sacrificial love, simplicity, humility, service, and suffering for His sake and the Gospel. Jesus reminds us that if He, our Master, faced rejection and persecution, even accused of casting out demons with the power of Beelzebul, we should not expect anything less. This reality can be daunting, but it is also a source of comfort and assurance for us. To be like our Teacher means to share in His sufferings, but also in His glory.
The Courage to Stand Firm
Jesus tells His disciples not to fear those who can kill the body but cannot kill the soul. This admonition challenges us to re-evaluate our fears and priorities. In a world where we often face pressures to conform, compromise our values, or remain silent about our faith, Jesus calls us to stand firm. The courage comes from understanding that our true worth and security lie in God’s love and sovereignty. But most importantly, it comes from an intimate relationship with Jesus, fostered through constant prayer and engagement with His word. In Him, we find strength and passion for mission.
The Assurance of God’s Care
In verses 29-31, Jesus uses the example of sparrows to illustrate God’s meticulous care for His creation: “Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father’s care.” If God cares for the sparrows, how much more does He care for us, His beloved children? This assurance of God’s intimate knowledge and care for us – down to the very hairs of our heads – should embolden us to live courageously our faith.
Confession before Men
Jesus also speaks about the importance of acknowledging Him before others. Thus, He makes us understand that our faith is not meant to be a private matter; it is to be lived out boldly and publicly, always respectful of others. Confessing Christ before men means living in a way that reflects His love, truth, and righteousness. It also means being willing to face opposition and misunderstanding for the sake of the Gospel. In return, Jesus promises to acknowledge us before His Father in heaven, a promise that gives us hope and strengthens our resolve.
Conclusion
Therefore, let us always keep in mind that being a disciple of Jesus is a transformative journey towards becoming like Him. This path has challenges, but it is one marked by divine assurance and eternal purpose. As we strive to embody the character and mission of our Teacher, let us find courage in His example, comfort in His care, and confidence in His promise. In learning to become like our Master Jesus, we find our true identity and purpose.
May this reflection inspire us to deepen our commitment to follow Jesus, no matter the cost, knowing that in Him, we find our ultimate joy and fulfillment, for He has given all for our salvation.
[Readings for Saturday Week 14: Isaiah 6:1-8; Matthew 10:24-33]
