When we were baptized, we were empowered to become "alter Christus", "other Christs". As "other Christs" we are meant to be extensions of the Lord in fostering the growth of the Kingdom of God that He has sown with his blood. But to participate in this work, we also should learn from Him, who now teaches us from within. Studying in His school of discipleship, we will have to make our own two values: the Kingdom and the Abba ("Father").
Read the relevant articles below and use the following as your guide for reflection:
1. The word "disciple" comes from a Latin word which means "student". The disciple is a student; he follows the teacher listening to his words, remembering what he says and does and making his own the values of the master. Jesus had one course to teach: The Kingdom of God; he had two values to impart -- the Kingdom itself, and the God who wants to be known as "Abba".
Reflect: To what extent have you made yourself a disciple of the Lord? How have you made Him your teacher, the one who gives direction to your life?
2. Jesus has been identified with the prophet Elijah, the one who used to call down fire from heaven to burn his enemies. James and John seem to imagine they can do the same thing just by being near the Lord. Jesus rebukes them, refusing to punish the Samaritans for denying him passage.
Jesus will later on cast fire on the fire on the earth, but it would be a different kind of fire. The fire that James and John wanted is the fire of God's wrath. Jesus' refusal to allow James and John on this matter is indicative of His way: God's wrath is not His agenda, God's kingdom is. The Samaritans will be receiving the Gospel later on, they're not just ready to accept Him yet.
Reflect: In the beginning of His way to Jerusalem, Jesus is rejected just as He was rejected in Nazareth. His response is to go the other way. Have you experienced rejection? How did you respond?
3. To be a disciple of Jesus, one will have to "deny himself, take up his cross daily and follow Me". "Self-denial" is turning away from comforts, the security afforded by family, the ties that link one to one's former way of life. One's life-project must become the Kingdom of God.
Reflect: Make a list of the things you want to do and the things you still want to experience. After completing your list, ask yourself: how do these fit in the project of Jesus which is "the Kingdom of God"? Are the things on your list compatible with the project of Jesus? How are you going to make the Kingdom of God the project that governs you life?
