A tough and challenging question that Jesus asks in so many words in today’s gospel. He lays it on the line in stark terms: hating family members, taking up your cross, renouncing all your possessions. Wow! He reminds us not even to start something you can’t finish or follow through.

I guess it’s something like deciding on walking the Camino. I had to first consider if I could handle the lengthy pilgrimage physically, emotionally; if I had enough energy; who will say the masses?; do I have enough time?; money?

For 4-5 weeks I’ve given up my possessions, I’ve carried the cross of this pilgrimage, I have given up family and friends, making Christ the focus of the journey and companionship, letting go of being in control.

But I’m only doing this for 4-5 weeks. Jesus seems to be saying to me that He wants ALL of me ALL the time. Nothing and no one can become the center of my life, neither possessions not loved ones. And I must accept whatever cross is given to me. Jesus is asking me to first accept the cost and then follow, never looking back.

He is asking you the very same reality. But we are in this together.