This text is another Gospel passage that can be difficult to reflect upon. I am the son of divorced parents. Many couples are struggling, and
their relationships appear irreparable. Reflecting upon Jesus’ words may cause some wounds to sting. But let us not be afraid to ask what Jesus calls us to with these words.
This week’s reflections have all been about how Jesus calls us to go deeper than conformity and interrogate our hearts' attitudes.
We may be challenged to reflect upon our attitude towards commitment. It is often tempting to take the easier route in life. However, commitment is big and scary. Most of us are unsure how we want to spend the rest of our lives. A lifelong commitment may feel like a trap that limits us from life’s possibilities. It can be costly and often demands that we
give of our entire selves.
But Jesus does not want us to commit for commitment’s sake. Instead, he invites us to
engage in a spirit of faith, hope and love. The hallmark of our Christian obligations should be joy and freedom.
Commitment opens us to many of its particular joys. Those of accomplishment, journeying with others through life’s ups and downs, making meaningful choices, and sticking to them. Commitment also brings a unique freedom in which one’s decisions are guided by that which is “conducive for the end for which we are created” (as St Ignatius says in the “Principle and Foundation” of his
“Spiritual Exercises”).
What do we do if we are facing difficulties in the commitments we have made? Jesus
consistently shows himself to be understanding and merciful. Therefore, we should not be afraid to bring all our anxieties to him with complete honesty and trust. He understands us and can bring us the healing and guidance we need.
Meditate on your attitude towards commitment. Do you see it as a burden or something that flows from faith, hope, and love? Do you experience joy and freedom? Talk to Jesus about your difficulties with your commitments.
