This reading from Matthew's Gospel on discipleship is always very difficult to understand and even to accept. Why is the cost of discipleship so huge? Why are the words of Jesus so harsh, given that he is the most loving person in this world?

To me, the reaction of Jesus, who is love, shows us another face of love. Love does not comply with our own desires, needs, wishes, but leads us to the desires, the wishes of God. In order to lead us to God's ways, Jesus has to make us see the difference and distance between God and us. That is why love also challenges us.

Challenging us is not to defy us, to humiliate us, but to help us leave our old ways of thinking and behaving and turn to God's way. This turning from ourselves to God demands a radical change and great sacrifices. Hence the process is often painful and costly. There is no other way to become a true disciple of the Lord but to give ourselves totally to God, leaving behind everything that hinders our journey towards God. This journey is undoubtedly difficult, but we are assured it is possible and safe with the grace of God.