Love That Asks Everything

 Gospel: Luke 14:25–33

Jesus teaches the crowd that following Him requires commitment. He uses the images of carrying the cross, building a tower, and a king preparing for battle to show that discipleship is costly but worthwhile.

We all know that real love asks something of us. It’s not just warm feelings — it’s commitment, sacrifice, and sometimes letting go of what we’d rather hold on to. In today’s Gospel, Jesus clarifies that following Him means putting Him first, even when it costs us comfort or convenience.

His words may sound harsh — leaving behind possessions, even family — but they point to a more profound truth. When we cling too tightly to anything else, we risk making it more important than God. True discipleship doesn’t fit into the margins of life; it calls for the centre.

The parables of the builder and the king remind us that discipleship isn’t about rushing in unprepared. It’s about choosing daily, with intention, to live by faith. That choice isn’t easy, but it leads to freedom and joy that outweigh the cost.

Maybe today, “carrying the cross” means letting go of something small that holds you back, or choosing patience, forgiveness, or courage in a difficult moment.

May this reflection encourage you today, and let its light flow gently outward, like a blessing passed along.