CHOOSE LIFE
DEUTERONOMY 30:15-20; PSALM 1; LUKE 9:22-25
See, “I set before you today life and prosperity, death and destruction.” Moses asked the people to make a choice between life and death. If they obey God’s commandments, they will live, but if they don’t, they will certainly be destroyed. Disobedience results in destruction, but obedience leads to salvation. Obedience brings peace, disobedience brings frustration and regret.
Similarly, Psalm 1 speaks of the happiness of those who keep God’s commandments: those who do not follow the counsel of the wicked, linger in the way of sinners, or sit in the company of scorners, but whose delight is the law of the Lord and who ponder his law day and night. Who are your counselors? Who are your companions? Are you presently seating with scorners, scoffers or mockers?
In the Gospel, Jesus challenges us to deny ourselves and follow Him. In today’s world, where there are so many alluring or attractive options, broad roads, easy shortcuts, fleeting highs, instant gratification, disguised pitfalls, slippery slopes and empty promises. Self denial and renunciation become the path of ultimate power, victory and peace.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, teach us to make a choice for life and peace. Faced with attractive desires, guide us by the Holy Spirit. Faced with temptations, lead us by your victorious hand. Amen.
Fr. Daniel Evbotokhai
