September 4, 2016: 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time

When we abide in the way of Christian discipleship, we must put our relationship with God above all else, which is why Jesus says we must renounce what we have, and hate those in our family--which doesn't mean "hate" so much as it means "loving less", according to Father Bob in his homily at Ascension Parish's Masses this past weekend.  We are reminded of this call as lived out by Christians throughout the world who are persecuted.

It is a difficult way, but beyond that, when we truly commit ourselves to to discipleship, we are transformed:  The course of our lives is now directed toward seeking to fulfill God's purposes in our lives, embracing others in the mercy of God as fellow brothers and sisters created and loved by God, that our work may prosper in Him who directs our course by the Holy Spirit.  We seek after God day by day, Who is our refuge throughout all time.