
The Measure of Smallness
October 22, 2026
Unbound: Standing Upright in Christ
October 26, 2026Follow Me Without Looking Back
Luke 9:57–62
Lectio — Read the Word
“Whoever sets a hand to the plow and looks to what was left behind is not fit for the kingdom of God.” (Luke 9:62)
Read Luke 9:57–62 slowly. Notice the three people who encounter Jesus. One offers to follow Him wherever He goes; another asks to bury his father first; and a third wants to say goodbye to his family. Jesus invites each one to consider what it truly means to follow Him.
Pause and reflect: What might Jesus be asking me to leave behind so I can follow Him more freely?
In our twenties and thirties, we make important decisions about careers, relationships, family, and our future. We naturally seek stability, comfort, and security. Yet Jesus reminds us that following Him requires a heart free enough to respond to His call.
First, Jesus tells us that He has nowhere to lay His head. Following Him is not a promise of material comfort, recognition, or success. He invites us to trust in God’s providence and to discover that our deepest treasure is not what we possess, but the relationship we have with Him.
Second, Jesus says, “Let the dead bury their dead.” His words are not a rejection of grief or family responsibilities. Rather, they challenge us to recognize what keeps us spiritually bound. Past wounds, resentment, guilt, sin, or painful experiences can continue to shape our lives long after an event has passed. Jesus does not ask us to deny our pain; He invites us to bring it to Him so that we can receive healing and move forward in freedom.
Finally, Jesus speaks about looking back. Loving our families and caring for those close to us are important, but even good relationships can become obstacles when fear, anxiety, or excessive attachment takes God’s place in our hearts. Jesus invites us to love others deeply while keeping Him at the center of our lives.
Reflect
- What possessions, comforts, or recognition am I unwilling to surrender to God?
- What past wound or resentment still limits my freedom?
- Are my relationships helping me grow closer to Jesus, or do I allow fear and attachment to keep me from following Him?
Photo: The Inspiration of Saint Matthew, Caravaggio. San Luigi dei Francesi, Rome
Lord Jesus, You know my heart and all that I carry. Free me from attachments that keep me from following You wholeheartedly. Heal the wounds of my past, help me release resentment, and teach me to trust Your providence. Bless my family and loved ones. Teach me to love them generously without allowing fear or anxiety to take Your place. You are my greatest treasure. Give me the courage to follow You wherever You lead. Amen.
Spend a few moments in silence with Jesus. Imagine placing before Him the burdens, attachments, and fears you are carrying. Let yourself rest in His love.
Repeat quietly: “Jesus, You are my treasure. Lead me in freedom.”
This week, identify one attachment that limits your freedom to follow Jesus. Take one concrete step: forgive someone, seek help with a persistent wound, simplify a material desire, or set aside time for prayer instead of worry.
Remember: Jesus does not call you to a life without love or responsibility. He calls you to a love that makes you free to follow Him.
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