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!

We take turns being leaders and followers in various contexts. We begin life as followers. Some children emerge as early leaders. We call these kids bossy (or was that just what they called me?). But no one remains fixed in either role indefinitely.

When it came close to the time for his Ascension, he gathered up his courage and steeled himself for the journey to Jerusalem. He sent messengers on ahead. They came to a Samaritan village to make arrangements for his hospitality.

Every other Friday, like clockwork, I am awakened out of a sound sleep at 3:30 a.m. by a banging noise. I don’t even bother getting up anymore. I know the cause: A man from across the alley has been locked out of his apartment, and he is pounding on his back door begging to be let in.

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

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