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Home Luke 14:28-33 NRSVue

Luke 14:28-33 NRSVue

28For which of you, intending to build a tower, does not first sit down and estimate the cost, to see whether he has enough to complete it? 29Otherwise, when he has laid a foundation and is not able to finish, all who see it will begin to ridicule him, 30saying, ‘This fellow began to build and was not able to finish.’ 31Or what king, going out to wage war against another king, will not sit down first and consider whether he is able with ten thousand to oppose the one who comes against him with twenty thousand? 32If he cannot, then while the other is still far away, he sends a delegation and asks for the terms of peace. 33So therefore, none of you can become my disciple if you do not give up all your possessions.

New Revised Standard Version Updated Edition (NRSVUE)

“Copyright © 2021 National Council of Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.”

Some thoughts on this scripture

Reflection
Jesus is asking his followers "Are you serious about this christian project? Or not?"

Reflection
How do people organise themselves for the things about which they are serious? How do I organise myself for the things about which I am serious?

Reflection
What do I want to say to the Lord?

Reflection
Jesus is looking at a small group of possible disciples. They are attracted to him and would like to belong with him. He tells them: 'Hold on. Don't start something you cannot finish. The cost could be high.' Eleven of the twelve apostles counted the cost and eventually paid it, though they stumbled on the way - think of Peter denying Jesus and hiding during the Crucifixion. Poor Judas stumbled and never found his way back.

Reflection
Lord, I want to be serious in following you, but I do not trust myself. I pray with Philip Neri: Lord, beware of this Philip or he will betray you! Lay your hand upon my head, for without you there is not a sin I may not commit this day.

Reflection
The cost of discipleship is high for Jesus; the examples he uses emphasises this, and points out also that the decision to follow him is one not to be rushed. The way of speaking in his time was often in stark contrasts, so the contrast of discipleship and possessions is his way of valuing discipleship over all else, not of rubbishing possessions. Prayer is the time of day or night when we offer our heart and our gifts and concerns as best we can to God.