Dear People of God,

Why do people leave Jesus? The reasons are many. For some it is problem of ideology; for others it is attachment to the secular things or addiction to drugs and for others it is because people do not live up to the principles of the Christian faith.

In the Gospel, we see many went away from Jesus. However, Jesus did not say to His apostles, "At least you remain with me." He does not compel anyone. What He once said to his apostles, He says to us even today: "Do you also want to leave?" He persuades nobody; He does not demand; He does not force. But He claims more faith, confidence and trust.

The fact that God respects our freedom is a sign of His love for us. Possessive love tries to control the loved one. God doesn't control us. He has given us the freedom to choose between good and evil. Since we are free, we are responsible for our choices, and for the consequences of our choice. Sin brings its own punishment. We are punished, not for our sins, but by our sins. When we choose to walk in God's ways in freedom, then we begin to enjoy life.

The Apostles, challenged by Jesus, decided to remain faithful. Peter took the lead and expressed their feelings: "Master, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life". What a beautiful response. This is one of the clearest and greatest profession of faith in the Gospel. What is our choice? Christ or the lure of money, pleasure and our own pride?

Lord, confirm our decision to stay with you. Draw us closer to you in bonds of trust, so that we may follow you in love and freedom.

May God bless us all.

Father Lawrence