June 20, 2010: 12th Sunday in Ordinary Time

Follow Jesus by living good lives and doing what is right.

Jesus said to his companions, “If you would come after me, deny yourself and take up your cross daily and follow me. For saving your life will mean losing it, and losing your life for my sake will mean saving it.” (Luke 9:23-24)

What does Jesus mean by saving and losing our lives? He does not mean losing as in death, although martyrs have lost their lives for Jesus. He is speaking about following him by living good lives. There is a side to each of us that does not want to do what is right. Sometimes we are tempted to be selfish, or greedy, or just plain mean. We feel like doing what we feel like doing no matter what. Denying yourself and losing your life for Jesus is about doing what is right. Remember, Jesus’ whole life was given for the sake of others.

Action:

On this Father’s Day, do something special for your Father or for someone who is like a Father to you.