Carrying the cross on Good Friday in your soutane, along a dusty road under the scorching heat of the sun is difficult. However, nothing can be harder than accepting Jesus' invitation to take up our cross daily because following Him entails cost.
Jesus calls us to deny ourselves, take up our cross, and follow him. Denying ourselves necessitates giving up our comforts and putting God's will ahead of our own. Moreover, taking up our cross necessitates sacrifice. Painful, but the process of refinement, much like a diamond, ushers in spiritual maturity and commitment as He continuously calls us to follow a life of obedience and faithful service.
It is not easy but it is a challenge that I must bear as a priest-in-process. Everyday is a unique experience of dying to myself, a constant purification of my intentions, and a call to reaffirm my resolve to carry the cross of my chosen vocation.
September 03, 2023 | 22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time
A reflection on Matthew 16: 21-27 by Roldan B. Baliano
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