This week’s gospel finds Jesus heading toward Jerusalem and confrontation with the religious and political leaders – a confrontation that leads to his execution. When the people of a Samaritan village along the way do not welcome him, two of his disciples offer to “command fire to come down from heaven and consume them.” Jesus rebukes them and simply moves on. Then a number of people say they want to follow Jesus, but ask if they can tend to other responsibilities before they go. Jesus’ replies make clear that following may mean setting aside our initial impulses and responsibilities, living without security or rest, and sharing the good news that God is here.
Following Jesus is not easy. In a letter to the community at Galatia, the apostle Paul writes about the “fruits of the spirt” – ways we followers behave toward each other and the world at the core of Jesus’ message. Paul names love, joy, peace, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. It is a lovely list and a challenging job description. Often, our impulse is the opposite. Yet, when we want to hate, we are called to love. When we feel despair, we are called to seek joy. When we are in the midst of upheaval, we are called to strive for peace. When we have the impulse to be nasty, we are called to live kindness. When we prefer self-interest, we are called to generosity. When we feel disloyal, we are called to faithfulness. When we want to be harsh, we are called to gentleness. When we want to lash out, we are called to find self-control.
No wonder Jesus warns people that following is hard. It is incredibly hard to be guided by God’s priorities. What we are called to do is impossible on our own. Yet, following Jesus and striving to live these “fruits of the spirit” transforms us. We are changed. The people we encounter are changed. The whole world is transformed.
Of course, our following will be imperfect and inconsistent, because we are human. God loves us and God knows our limitations. AND God also empowers us, giving us gifts that help us to follow.
Peace,