How does it mean to follow jesus?
In today’s gospel, we hear Jesus say, “If anyone wishes to come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.” My initial reaction upon reading this gospel was to change the language so it reflects women as well as men. That aside, the funeral of a friend that took place this week came to mind. There is no doubt she followed Jesus. She heard his call to love one another, and she lived it.
She is remembered in her parish for creating the Angel Tag outreach, which, under her leadership for 28 years, gave more than 30,000 gifts to families in need at Christmastime. However, her understanding of what it meant to love one another is best seen in her open heart with her children. One of her sons spoke at her funeral about the unconditional love he received from his mother throughout his life and cited the night he came out as a gay man. He thanked her for the gift of her acceptance of who he was. His courage to share this story of his mother’s love at a critical time in his life, and her continued love and support, was moving. She would have been proud.
The homilist reminded us that this woman did not seek the spotlight. She was instead a steady light always available to lend a hand. She was quiet but strong, advocating for people who needed help or were going through an illness or tough time.
The call of Jesus to follow him is different for each of us. There is not one way, but many.
As we begin this Lenten season, I struggle to identify a path forward for these 40 days. What will I do or not do that can bring me closer to Jesus? Today, I will pray for courage, a kind heart, and awareness of others' needs, as my friend did. Tomorrow and all the subsequent days of Lent, I will look to the readings of the day for the voice of the Spirit and do my best to follow that voice.
What is your plan to elevate awareness of following Jesus this Lent?
Anne Hansen