Discipleship: A Way of Life

Discipleship is the foundation of the Christian faith. It involves a deep commitment to follow and adhere to Jesus Christ's teachings. As believers, we grow in our relationship with Christ, emulating His life and teachings. The term "disciple" comes from the Greek word "mathetes," meaning learner or student. In Jesus' time, disciples would attach themselves to a teacher or Rabbi, imitating their words and way of life.

Jesus calls us to discipleship through His invitation "Follow me" (Matthew 4:19). This signifies a commitment to walk in His ways, learn from His teachings, and live out His commands. Discipleship is about building a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. We learn from Him and become more like Him over time. It's not just about behavior modification but heart transformation. This requires a deep commitment to follow Jesus.

God calls individuals to discipleship in various ways, through different vocations in the Church. These vocations include marriage, priesthood, religious life (or consecrated life), and the single life. In each of these vocations, Jesus has planted the seeds of holiness. This allows us to grow in holiness as we respond to His call.

Moreover, prayer and witness are essential components of discipleship. They form a two-fold foundation of the life of every disciple. Prayer develops our conversation with Christ, making us His intimate friends. Witness is the second part of this foundation. Each vocation has an element of witness. Some disciples witness with words in the public forum, like Saint Paul. Others, like Saint Clare of Assisi or Saint Therese of Lisieux, leave the world and in so doing witness to the transcendent.

The story of Saint Thomas More is a powerful example of discipleship. As a devoted husband, father, and Chancellor of England, he remained steadfast in his faith despite persecution. When asked to recognize King Henry VIII as the supreme head of the Church, Thomas More refused, choosing instead to stand by his beliefs. His martyrdom is a testament to the cost of discipleship and the importance of prioritizing one's faith above all else.

In addition to prayer and witness, discipleship requires further nourishment. This comes through the Word of God and Godly relationships. These help us mature in faith and become more like Christ. Jesus' expectation for His followers is clear: to become more and more like Himself. This may involve carrying our cross daily (Luke 9:23). Jesus wants His disciples to understand that they must be radically dependent upon Him. They should consider ahead of time what it will cost them to follow Him.

The sacrifices He asks us to make are for our ultimate good. They help us become whole and holy. We are freed from the destructive nature of sin and walk in step with the Spirit. According to Mike Foss, six marks of discipleship include daily prayer, weekly worship, diligent study of the Bible, service, spiritual friendships, and giving time and resources to the Lord's work.

Dear Friends, I recommend highly that we embrace daily these six marks of discipleship so that our lives may be transformed. May the joy of the Lord be your strength Amen.