How uncompromising are Jesus’ instructions to the departing disciples? Yet, he leaves hope of consolations: ‘whoever welcomes you welcomes me and whoever welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me’ and the kindness of ‘a cup of cold water.’

To what extent can we the baptised apply these instructions of radical discipleship? Discernment is crucial, and Pope Francis’ 2022 Catecheses are a guide. Daily prayer is our lifeblood. The Sacraments, especially the Eucharist, are our strength. God’s Revelation of a desired relationship with each and all of us is our comfort.

What is the attitude behind Jesus’ discipleship instructions? One expression is the Ignatian Take Lord Receive prayer, which calls for detachment, and surrender, bringing about the freedom of the disciple.

How can the saints illustrate this paradox of losing one’s life to find it? Today’s North American feast is Saint Kateri Tekakwitha, a Native American: in a period of colonialism and missionary interaction, she was a bridge builder. Her kindness to sick and vulnerable people was ‘a cup of cold water’ to them. She set up prayer spaces with crosses made of sticks in trees in the woods. She said, ‘I am no longer my own. I have given myself entirely to Jesus Christ.’

Let us pray for a heart of welcome and kindness so that we can listen as we walk together with Jesus, realising that what unites us is immeasurably beyond our differing opinions, worldviews, and devotional preferences.

By Peter Webb