Today's readings challenge us to measure the cost of truly following God. In the first reading, we are challenged to remember the oppressed and neglected, and in the gospel, Jesus makes it clear that following Him means letting go of comfort and security. We lose the assurance of knowing where we will sleep, where we’re going, and we risk the possibility of being rejected.

In the reading from the Prophet Amos, we hear God’s anger that the poor and weak are treated with disdain. To follow the call of God means to stand with those who struggle. It means not labeling people in their struggles, but instead attempting to understand their situation and offering whatever assistance we’re able to provide.

In the gospel, Jesus' response to the person who wanted to bury his father was shocking. Assuming this person was the first-born, they had an obligation to perform this duty. This was a sacred duty of the eldest, and not doing so would risk permanent rejection from their loved ones.

One can imagine that the people hearing Jesus preach and witnessing His miracles were mesmerized by what He was saying and doing, but they missed the deeper meaning of His message: to really follow Him means making very hard decisions.

We can fall into the same trap today. In many ways, we have watered down Jesus' message, turning Him into a sentimental figure. Alternatively, we might take on the role of a self-appointed prophet, condemning those we believe are not living faithful lives, neglecting Jesus' message to love others, even our enemies.

Truly following Jesus requires risk. It means being uncomfortable, perhaps by listening to the opinions of those with whom we disagree. It means standing up against injustices and aligning ourselves with the marginalized, which won’t always make us look good. It can mean leaving behind our comforts, both material and emotional, so that we can contribute to building the Kingdom of God.

What are you being invited to let go of?