Luke 9:57-62
57 As Jesus and his disciples were proceeding on their journey, someone said to him, “I will follow you wherever you go.” 58 Jesus answered him, “Foxes have dens and birds of the sky have nests, but the Son of Man has nowhere to rest his head.” 59 And to another he said, “Follow me.” But he replied, “Lord, let me go first and bury my father.” 60 But he answered him, “Let the dead bury their dead. But you, go and proclaim the Kingdom of God.” 61 And another said, “I will follow you, Lord, but first let me say farewell to my family at home.” 62 Jesus answered him, “No one who sets a hand to the plow and looks to what was left behind is fit for the Kingdom of God.”
Historical Background
Luke 9:57–62 captures a moment during Jesus’ journey toward Jerusalem—a pivotal phase in His ministry. This passage is part of a larger section (Luke 9:51–19:27) often called the “Travel Narrative,” where Jesus resolutely sets His face toward the cross. The three encounters in these verses reflect the radical demands of discipleship in a time when following a rabbi meant leaving behind family, livelihood, and comfort.
In Jewish culture, honoring one’s parents—especially through burial rites—was sacred. Saying farewell to family was a sign of respect. Yet Jesus’ responses seem shockingly harsh. Why? Because He was redefining allegiance: the Kingdom of God demands first place, even above the most revered cultural norms.
Theological Context
This passage confronts the tension between intention and action. Jesus doesn’t reject the desire to follow Him—He challenges the conditions attached to it. His replies emphasize that discipleship isn’t cozy—it’s costly. The proclamation of the Kingdom cannot wait. Looking back weakens our commitment.
Theologically, this is about lordship. Jesus isn’t just inviting us to walk beside Him—He’s calling us to surrender everything to Him.
Learning Lessons
Discipleship is not convenience-based. It demands sacrifice, discomfort, and perseverance. Excuses—even noble ones—can delay obedience. Jesus calls us to prioritize His mission above all.
Commitment must be forward-facing. Looking back—longing for what was—hinders spiritual growth. Ask yourself: What am I still clinging to that keeps me from fully following Jesus?
“The Plow and the Path”
I said, “I’ll follow,” heart ablaze,
But comfort whispered soft delays.
A pillow, a grave, a final goodbye—
Each tugged my soul to linger, lie.
But You, O Christ, walked on ahead,
No place to rest, no tears to shed.
Your eyes were fixed, Your pace was true,
The path was narrow, known by few.
So now I grip the plow You gave,
No turning back, no soul to save
But mine through loss, through fire and rain—
To walk with You is worth the pain.
Lord Jesus,
You call me to follow You—not with half a heart, but with full surrender. Forgive me for the times I’ve hesitated, delayed, or looked back. Teach me to walk with You even when the road is rough, to proclaim Your Kingdom with urgency and joy, to love You more than comfort, tradition, or fear. Give me the grace to grip the plow and never let go. May my life be a living testimony of Your worth.
Amen.
Pericope:
I consider all things so much rubbish that I may gain Christ and be found in him.
Reflection Source:
