A Note From Father Rob

The Bible isn’t only a book we read for peace and comfort. The scriptures can often challenge us to the limits of our understanding. Some of the sayings of Jesus and the interactions he has with his disciples can leave us questioning our own understanding of our Lord, as well as our journey of discipleship.

One such passage appears in our Gospel reading this Sunday. "Whoever comes to me and does not hate father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters, yes, and even life itself, cannot be my disciple. Whoever does not carry the cross and follow me cannot be my disciple … So therefore, none of you can become my disciple if you do not give up all your possessions.

These are harsh and difficult words from our Lord to any of us who consider ourselves disciples of Jesus. How can these words be understood in light of other passages spoken by our Lord that we have come to love and cherish; passages that speak of love and forbearance, peace and kindness?

Our discipleship journey isn’t always an easy one, sometimes it comes at a cost we may or may not be willing to pay. Come to St. James this Sunday at either 8 a.m. or 10 a.m. and bring an inquiring mind as we tackle one of the most difficult and misunderstood Bible verses in the New Testament.

God be with us, Rob+