💖 HOMILY - NOVEMBER 5 💖

First Reading - Romans 13:8-10 

Gospel - Luke 14:25-33

Every meaningful relationship—whether with family, friends, or God—requires commitment. Love is not just a feeling; it is a decision, a daily choice to give oneself for the good of another. Today’s readings remind us that authentic discipleship and love both demand total commitment. They are not half-hearted efforts but wholehearted responses to God’s call.

In the first reading, St. Paul beautifully summarizes the entire law in one sentence: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” He reminds us that love is the fulfillment of the law—not the kind of love that is selective or sentimental, but the kind that seeks the good of others even when it costs us something. To love as Christ loves means putting others before ourselves, forgiving without keeping count, and serving without seeking recognition. It is a love that transforms both the giver and the receiver.

The Gospel, however, takes us deeper into the cost of that love. Jesus tells the crowd that whoever wishes to follow Him must be ready to “hate” father, mother, wife, children, brothers, sisters—even one’s own life—in comparison to their love for Him. This is not a call to reject family or self; rather, it is a call to place God above all else. Jesus uses strong language to make it clear that discipleship is not about convenience—it’s about priority. To follow Christ is to choose Him as the center of our lives, even when that choice demands sacrifice.

He continues with two parables: one about building a tower and another about a king preparing for battle. Both highlight the importance of counting the cost. Discipleship is not an impulsive decision; it requires thought, perseverance, and the willingness to surrender everything. Faith that costs nothing is often worth nothing. True faith, however, gives life meaning, purpose, and direction.

Dear friends, these readings challenge us to examine where our hearts truly lie. What are the things or relationships that sometimes come before God? Is it comfort, ambition, approval, or fear? Following Christ may mean letting go of attitudes, habits, or pursuits that keep us from wholehearted love. It might also mean learning to love more deeply and selflessly in our families, workplaces, and communities—where discipleship is lived out in daily acts of patience, humility, and compassion.

The love St. Paul describes and the discipleship Jesus demands are two sides of the same coin. Both require us to move beyond ourselves and align our hearts with God’s will. Love is not just emotion; it’s sacrifice. Discipleship is not just belief; it’s commitment.

If we choose to follow Christ sincerely, He will not promise us an easy road, but He will promise us His presence—and that is more than enough. The joy of knowing Him and loving as He loves outweighs every cost.

May we find the courage to love without measure and to follow Christ without reservation, trusting that what we surrender for His sake, He will return to us in abundance—transformed, purified, and eternal.