When He had gone a little farther from there, He saw James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, who also were in the boat mending their nets. And immediately He called them, and they left their father Zebedee in the boat with the hired servants, and went after Him.” (Mark 1:14-20).
They all immediately dropped everything, heeded his call without hesitation and proceeded to follow Him
Mark further tells of a rich young ruler, who had followed the commandments all his life. But, when Jesus’ tells him he has one more action to take - “go and sell all your possess and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me”, the young ruler became greatly distressed because he was very rich and found it difficult to give up all of his material possessions. To forsake his old life for a new life solely devoted to following Christ was a difficult pill to swallow. He chose the old life.
Not everyone is up to the challenge of becoming a priest. Many people are still being called today. Doing good; going to church, participating in the rituals of the church and being more religious person is not enough. Jesus is seeking disciples to be more like Him; to follow in his footsteps, seek Him with all their hearts and bring others to Him.
“If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it.”(Matthew 6:24)
For you have been called for this purpose, since Christ also suffered for you, leaving an example for you to follow in His steps (1 Peter 2:21)
It’s a huge commitment to take on the mantle of Christ. But, our newly ordained priests have made the commitment to faithfully live for God, spread his word and build His flock. They have accepted His call to “Follow me” – without reservation.
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