Homily for Friday of the 6th Week in Ordinary Time

For us to be true to the teaching of Christ and to His values often means having to go against what society says and even putting aside parts of ourselves so that He may be first in our lives. In many ways, this may feel like a loss.

In our efforts to be faithful to the LORD, we will often have to say “no” when others are saying “yes.” Following Jesus is not easy; it often means taking the way of the Cross, that is, the more difficult way. Being Jesus’ followers is very demanding, especially in today’s world and culture.

However, Jesus promises that those who lose their lives for His sake and for the sake of the Gospel will save their lives; they will be more alive. So, what feels like a loss at the time will ultimately be a benefit.

Jesus understands the temptation to be ashamed of Him and His words. He gets that we may feel tempted to keep our faith in Him hidden so as to go with the flow. However, if we are prepared to live our faith publicly, even when pressured to do otherwise, then we will come to know the fullness of life that the LORD wants for all of us.+