Prayer of the Day

Feast of St. Lucy, Virgin and Martyr

Following Jesus is not easy it takes courage and perseverance.  During his public ministry many followed Jesus at a distance.  The crowds loved his miracles but found his sayings difficult to accept.    Our baptism opens the gate for us to follow Jesus but very often we do so at a distance just like the crowds in Israel.   Jesus himself left us in no doubt about the cost when he said that “If any want to become my followers, let them deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.” (Matt. 16:24).  To follow Jesus means to be converted, to die to selfishness, to be patient in sufferings and uncertainties and be willing to grow in hope and love.  This is the only way to find the fullness of life promised by Jesus.  “I have come so that you may have life, and have it to the full” (Jn. 10:10).