Philippians 2:12-18 / Luke 14:25-33
Generally speaking, we like to listen to songs, especially the songs that we grew up with.
When we were younger, we may pay more interest to the beat and the melody.
But now that we are older, do the songs mean more to us? Especially when we have faced the complexities of life?
It is said that when you're happy you will enjoy the music, but when you're sad, then you will understand the lyrics.
In the gospel, Jesus taught the crowds about the cost of discipleship. To be His disciple, Jesus must be over and above the other relationships, even if they are intimate blood relations.
We have to constantly think about the price we have to pay if we really want to be disciples of Jesus, otherwise we may try to build but we are unable to finish.
But giving up all for Jesus begins in small ways, as the 1st reading would put it.
When we do what is expected of us without complaining or arguing, then we can be innocent and genuine, and we will shine in the world like bright stars because we are offering the world the word of life.
That might sound like music to our ears, but let us also pay attention to the lyrics.
When we understand the cost of discipleship that Jesus is talking about, then we will understand what St. Paul meant when he said in the 1st reading: If my blood has to be shed as part of your own sacrifice and offering, I shall be happy and rejoice with all of you.
The we will be willing to make the sacrifice and offering of being a disciple.