Looking Back - the man at the plow
James Tissot, 1890

My dear friends,

Luke 9:51-62 reveals important lessons about commitment, non-violence, and the nature of true discipleship.

The text begins with Jesus setting his face towards Jerusalem, knowing well that this journey would lead him to his passion and death. This is a lesson in determination and commitment. When we have a clear goal that aligns with the higher good, we must commit ourselves fully and not be swayed by the challenges and distractions that will inevitably come our way.

In the second part of this passage, Jesus and his disciples enter a village of the Samaritans, but they are not received well because of the existing tension between the Jews and the Samaritans. The disciples, James and John, ask Jesus if they should command fire to come down from heaven and consume the village, but Jesus rebukes them. This is a profound lesson in non-violence and compassion. Even when we are rejected or treated unfairly, we should respond with kindness and understanding rather than aggression and revenge. The way of compassion is the path that leads to inner peace and harmony with the world.

Finally, in the latter part of the passage, Jesus encounters three individuals who express a desire to follow him but present excuses for delaying their commitment. Jesus' responses to them highlight the importance of wholehearted commitment to the spiritual path. It is not enough to merely express a desire to follow the path of compassion and wisdom; we must be willing to let go of our attachments and make the necessary sacrifices.

To the first individual, who says he will follow Jesus wherever he goes, Jesus responds that "the Son of Man has nowhere to lay his head." This is a reminder that the path of true discipleship requires a willingness to let go of our attachments to comfort and security.

To the second individual, who asks to go and bury his father before following Jesus, Jesus responds, "Let the dead bury their own dead; but as for you, go and proclaim the kingdom of God." This is a reminder that the call to spiritual practice and service to others is urgent and should not be postponed.

To the third individual, who wants to say farewell to his family before following Jesus, Jesus responds, "No one who puts a hand to the plow and looks back is fit for the kingdom of God." This is a reminder that once we have committed ourselves to the path, we must not look back or second-guess our decision.

This passage from the Gospel of Luke offers us important lessons on commitment, non-violence, and the nature of true discipleship. May we all find the strength and courage to commit ourselves fully to the path of compassion and wisdom, to respond to rejection and adversity with kindness and understanding, and to make the necessary sacrifices to serve the higher good.

May peace and compassion be with you all.