Posted by The WORD in other words (2010) by Father Martin Mandin SVD – Cainta, Rizal
Thursday 12th Week in Ordinary Time
Do we have the capacity to live as authentic disciples of Jesus? Do I belong to what Jesus calls the “one who does the will of my Father in heaven?” (Matthew 7:21) To live the Word of God and follow His will presupposes self-love and appreciation.
Jesus Himself had a deep appreciation of our humanity. He recognized our inner strengths, which is why He urged His disciples: “Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect” (Matthew 5:48). Likewise, Paul, who knew human weakness, shared Jesus’ optimism: “Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ” (1 Corinthians 11:1).
In our imitation — not mimicry — of God the Father and Jesus our Master, we share their worldview, values, and orientation. Imitation leads to relationship: God-loving, man living God’s Word. Jesus’ attitude toward the criminal on the cross must also be ours: compassion, forgiveness, and hope (cf. Luke 23:43).
The goodness of our humanity explains our thirst for excellence, our desire to do good, and our joy in virtue. Men and women of virtue seek guidance, and Scripture provides it — through commandments, parables, and stories that shape our moral compass.
Anthony de Mello reminds us that transformation comes not by memorizing doctrines but by experiencing God’s Word. “You must taste and feel in your heart the inner meaning of biblical stories until they transform you. Do not be like the ravenous person who eats the menu rather than the meal.” Knowledge lights the way, but enlightenment makes us the torch itself.
Thus, discipleship is not about perfection in the worldly sense, but about entering the narrow gate of spiritual depth, allowing God’s Word to transform us into living witnesses of His love.
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