The Cost of Discipleship

Isaiah 50: 4-7    Psalm 22: 8-9, 17-18, 19-20, 23-24    Phil. 2: 6-11    Mark 14: 1-15: 47  or  15: 1-39

 

And being found in appearance as a man,
    he humbled himself
    by becoming obedient to death—
        even death on a cross!    Philippians 2: 8

In all these readings we learn that if we are to follow the Lord, we will meet opposition and may suffer dearly for it.  The prophet in exile suffered mocking and beatings. The psalm expresses feelings of abandonment. Paul tells us in Philippians that Jesus lowers Himself to be a slave.  Finally, Mark relates the story of Jesus' betrayal and passion.

Following the Lord is not easy.  No wonder we Catholics hang crucifixes in our homes and wear crosses on our necks.  Don't forget.  To be a follower of Jesus means you will suffer.  

But these readings also urge us to remain faithful.  Isaiah knows he can rely on the Lord.  The psalm singer ends the psalm by praising the Lord.  And Paul and Mark look towards the Resurrection.  

By following the way of the Lord we know that whatever befalls us, in the end, we will be saved.