23RD SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME: FAITH AND THE SCANDAL OF GRACE

THE CONTRADICTION OF DISCIPLESHIP

Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s insight that “discipleship is both costly and grace” sets the tone for today’s gospel. Jesus tells the crowd: “Whoever does not carry his own cross and come after me cannot be my disciple.” Discipleship is not about popularity, success, or convenience. It’s a journey of radical fidelity to Christ. It seems a sign of contradiction in a world that craves comfort and compromise. The contradiction is that grace is free, but it costs everything.

PAUL’S APPEAL TO PHILEMON: CROSS-CARRYING IN ACTION

St. Paul’s brief letter to Philemon becomes a powerful illustration of costly faith in action. Paul, writing from prison, asks Philemon to receive back Onesimus, not as a slave but as a brother in Christ. This is more than a personal request; it is a direct challenge to a socio-economic and cultural system that normalized slavery. Paul disrupts the status quo and invites Philemon into the scandal of grace. To obey Paul’s appeal would mean going against prevailing Roman law, economic logic, and even social expectations. This would cost Philemon something, perhaps his reputation/ego, influence, or comfort.

Modern-day disciples are called to be like Philemon. The challenge is to “carry the cross” by aligning with Christ rather than the crowd. The gospel of Christ promises transformation through truth.

RADICAL ALLEGIANCE: TRUE LOYALTY

Jesus’ stark words about “hating father, mother, wife, children…” seem a bit confusing, but they point rather to undivided allegiance. Let’s bear in mind that these are Semitic expressions meant not for emotional rejection, but for hierarchical clarity. This passage does not encourage us to despise our families, but to prioritize God over everything and everyone. It evokes the tenets of the first commandment: “I am the Lord your God…”Convenient faith isn’t discipleship. Real faith interrupts the flow of convention. It demands sacrifice, shakes our attachments, and places God's reign above all else.

COUNTING THE COST: WISDOM AND CONVICTION

Jesus uses two analogies —the man building a tower and the king preparing for war — to reinforce the need for planning, foresight, and sober spiritual assessment. Discipleship is more than a mere emotional impulse. Discipleship is a relationship that involves witnessing—it is a serious covenant. Without conviction, one falters in the face of trials. Without grace, one cannot endure.

THE NARROW WAY IN TODAY’S WORLD

Today’s disciples carry crosses in the form of cultural alienation, moral courage, and fidelity to truth in hostile settings. When we stand for life, marriage, or Christian values in secular environments, our friendships or status may be at stake. When we advocate for justice and mercy (like Paul did), we may challenge our comfort or tradition. When we speak up for the marginalized or poor, we may compromise the chances of receiving favors from those in power. And yet, Christ promises: “Everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or… for my sake will receive a hundredfold and eternal life” (Matt. 19:29).

CALLED TO BE FAITHFUL, PERHAPS NOT PERFECT

It’s not about being flawless but being faithful. Christ does not ask us to be without weakness. He asks us to follow, even when it hurts: “Come to me, all you who are weary… and I will give you rest” (Matt. 11:28). The Lord Jesus carries the cross with us. He strengthens the hearts of those who remain when others fall away. Do not be afraid!

Readings: Wisdom 9:13–18 | Philemon 9–10, 12–17 | Luke 14:25–33

Reflection Questions

1. What does discipleship cost me right now? (Is it comfort, relationships, reputation, or perhaps my own plans?)

2. Have I ever had to choose between Christ and something (or someone) I loved deeply? (What helped me stay faithful—or what drew me away?)

3. Like Philemon, who might Christ be calling me to welcome or forgive, even when it's difficult? (Is there a relationship or situation where I’m being asked to carry the cross?)