June 30, 2015

TWO TYPES OF FOLLOWERS ++++++++++++++++++++

Ø Jesus says, “Fear not” or “Do not be afraid” in the Gospels 107 times

Ø In Mt, Jesus spends a lot of time trying to get his followers 2 commit 2 discipleship wholeheartedly

Ø Those who follow him fall into two groups: people on the outer edges, physically and literally

Ø These are folks needing to jump in with both feet and follow Jesus unreservedly

Ø The 2^nd group, his inner circle, is fully committed but doesn’t understand all Jesus expects of them because their faith is not fully formed

Ø As disciples, they still leave much to be desired

THE GOSPEL +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Ø In today’s Gospel, Jesus is asleep in the boat and the seaworthy, experienced fishermen are terrified, which in itself seems a bit strange

Ø When they call out to the Lord, he hears them, and he chastises them for showing fear in his presence

Ø Their “little faith,” accompanied with amazement that Jesus has power over nature, belies their inner-circle status

Ø Here’s the good news, though: They do have a little faith, if it only be the size of a mustard seed

Ø They are beginning to understand the cost of discipleship and who is calling them

First Reading ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Ø Lot may be Abraham’s nephew, but he is not as believing in God’s word as his uncle

Ø He would be in the outer circle

Ø He is still reticent to accept fully what he is being called to do to fulfill God’s plan

Ø At times I find myself in the 1^st; at other in the 2^nd

CONCLUSION ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Ø The protomartyrs of Rome witnessed to the truth of Christ with their very lives during Nero’s persecution

Ø They died in amphitheaters, were beheaded, burned alive, or crucified as entertainment for the crowds

Ø We remember them today as perfect disciples who were not amazed at what Christ can do

Ø Inside or outside the circle, their faith was great.

Ø Ours, inside or out, could be as well!

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WordsWorthNoting