30/06/2013
Sunday Reflection- Reverend Vincent Fenga
Sunday 30 June 2013 (1 kings 19: 16 – 20, Galatians 5: 1 – 18, Luke 9: 51 – 62. Psalm 16)
Elisha followed Prophet Elijah, but only after he had left his family, oxen and plowing equipment behind. Similarly, the disciples of Christ must be willing to leave behind all their attachments, all that prevents them from freely and generously following Christ. Many wanted to follow Jesus, but he told them, “whoever has put his hand to the plough and looks back is not fit for the Kingdom of God.” Is Jesus suggesting that we must give up what God has given us: our families, homes, friends and all the material things if we wish to make it to heaven? No. He is saying that following Christ is the most important duty of a Christian. And all that can adversely affect our goal must be overcome and removed. We must learn to give up our sinful desires, habits, thoughts and actions if we are serious about wanting to achieve what Jesus offers to a true follower. In other words, Jesus seeks to make our following easier and comfortable by unburdening ourselves of all attitudes of bitterness, malice, hatred, lack of compassion, revenge and faithlessness, and replacing them with love, mercy, compassion, forgiveness and faithfulness.
The focal point here is our selfless love and sacrifice. Paul is highlighting what Jesus kept repeating to the Jewish people for three years: it is how we treat one another that really counts. It’s not accomplishing great things that matters here on earth or in heaven but how we go about accomplishing them. The whole law has found its fulfillment in this one saying: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself,” as we spent this day lets walk in the footsteps of our Lord Jesus who protects and guide us. Amen.