The Path of Christ

Gospel Reflection 10/20/22

When we accept Christ's call, one thing is sure. The path of Christ can be tough, really tough. While some will encounter division among their family, friends, and/or spouse. Others will face the daily challenges of maintaining a Christian lifestyle in a not-so-Christian world. Christ explained these challenges, and in today's scripture, we are reminded that living a life as He intended means that division and challenges will no doubt cross our paths one way or another. 

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"Do you think that I have come to establish peace on the earth? No, I tell you, but rather division. From now on a household of five will be divided, three against two and two against three; a father will be divided against his son and a son against his father, a mother against her daughter and a daughter against her mother, a mother-in-law against her daughter-in-law and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law." (Luke 12:51-53)

Although we understand the path of Christ is hard, and we may lose connection with certain friends or family members, there is still no other path a person can take that is as rewarding. Taking the path of Christ is the greatest journey in which the heart and mind become renewed and transformed. It is a path filled with love, joy, pain, and yet still, for many of us, that first step can seem daunting. 

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"Sorry! I don't want any adventures, thank you. Not Today. Good morning! But please come to tea -any time you like! Why not tomorrow? Goodbye!"― J.R.R. Tolkien, The Hobbit

Yes, indeed, leaving behind one's old life of sin is indeed scary and overwhelming. It is not easy to let go of the things we have become overly attached to in the world. Some of us may want to ask God to come back for tea another day, and yes, there is no doubt He will come back whenever you are ready. But let me tell you from my own experience the journey with God is one in which the destination is Heaven, and no earthly journey or adventure can match. On Christ's path, we become truly free from the chains of sin, and with the aid of grace, our hearts find everlasting peace. As St. Augustine rightfully conveyed in the book Confessions, "our hearts are restless until they rest in you."

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Today be encouraged by Christ, our guide, and strengthened with His Spirit's power. Let Christ dwell in your hearts through faith" (Eph 3:16). He will always be there for you, and once you accept Him into your heart, soon, very soon you will see how this adventure transforms your whole being. 

"My dear Bilbo!" he said. "Something is the matter with you! You are not the hobbit that you were." J.R.R Tolkien, The Hobbit (Tolkien,1937).