In Today’s gospel, Jesus addresses the “great crowds” following him. He places before them the reality that being his disciple will not be easy. Although they have seen his miracles, he does not want them (or us) to follow him blindly. Following Jesus is more than waiting for the next miracle to occur.

   As Jesus proclaims, we have to peer into the depths of our being to decide if we are going to follow him, or not. Miracles are few and far between; sufferings are many and often. Jesus is up front with us: there is no fine print, nor hidden disclaimer. He has walked the walk. He invites us to do the same.