Jesus was very clear about the cost of discipleship. It might entail family division, persecution, and even death. He didn't mince words when he talked about the hardships his followers would face. And yet, at the same time he says, "Do not be afraid."
Isn't this a bit of a contradiction? Does it seem odd that Jesus warns us about future difficulties but then tells us not to worry?
Up Next in Year A
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13th Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year A)
If you ask people what they want, they'll often say that they want a new car, a better job, a bigger house, or some other possession. But if you probe a little deeper, you'll find that they don't really want possessions. Rather, they desire a sense of fulfillment, a feeling of being loved and che...
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14th Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year A)
Sometimes we are tempted to think that it would be so much easier to believe in Jesus if we were living when he was on earth. Maybe ... but maybe not. Today's Gospel tells us that it has never been easy to understand all of Jesus's teachings, even for those who heard him in person.
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15th Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year A)
When we hear the parable of the sower and seed, it can be easy to assume it is meant for someone else. After all, we are good soil, right?
