It’s shocking to hear what Jesus and Elijah demand of those who wish to be a disciple: leave your work and entire way of life. Don’t even say good-bye to your family. Don’t even bury the dead!

It’s said that a refined person always knows when it’s time to go. Most of us have many more friends afflicted with what psychologists call “termination issues": They can’t seem to hang up the phone, say goodbye at the door, or leave an email unresponded to.

The gospel tells us that Jesus “resolutely determined to journey to Jerusalem.” Unwelcoming villagers and reluctant disciples could not steer him off course. His mission was clear.  

Brothers and sisters, let us acknowledge our sins, and so prepare ourselves to celebrate the sacred mysteries.

When Jesus used a plow as a metaphor for pursuing the kingdom of God, he had in mind exactly what Elisha was doing in the first reading: Driving a team of oxen before a plow. Plows in the ancient Near East, though, were lightweight affairs that needed constant attention.

While not easy, there is grace to be had by not only making but truly owning the decision to let go of something. It may be the grace of simplifying life, of focusing on what matters.

Christianity without discipleship is always Christianity without Christ. —Dietrich Bonhoeffer