As we embark upon our lenten journey, we are both encouraged yet also challenged by this Gospel in which Jesus feeds us with his words. He calls us, each and every one of us, saying, “Come, follow me!” Being called is a beautiful gift, an opportunity to meet “Love Himself.” In order to come to know Christ, he tells us that each must, “deny himself and take up his cross.” Now this may sound daunting, and it truly will not be easy; but Christ promises the greatest gift of all through the Holy Cross: salvation!
Jesus has given us the roadmap to salvation. We must freely choose to love Him and follow. The Gospel ends with the words of Christ…a profound question to be on our hearts during this journey, echoed through the ages, even by our dear St. Ignatius: “What profit is there for one to gain the whole world yet lose himself?” Be not afraid.
—Written by a Senior at St. Ignatius High School, Cleveland OH.