But there is one thing over which we appear to have no more control than we had a century ago — the self. If anything, we have less self control.
Recently we have begun to recognize the negative effects of absence of self-control and “mindfulness” has become the latest popular solution.
As Christians, we know that real control has nothing to do with controlling our environment. The control that leads to peace starts inside. It begins with a single relationship, the relationship of the individual with Jesus. It begins when we accept the idea that there is a God and that God loves us so much that he came down and lived a truly human life to be with us, to walk with us. The hard part is how we are supposed to walk with him.
Many people love images of Jesus walking along beside us. That, however, is not the gospel. In the gospel we are told that our place is not in front or beside but behind. Jesus says, “Follow me.” And this is where we start to react, to rebel. In the abstract, we are ok with being followers. But in reality, we want him to help with our projects. The idea of us being the assistants who walk behind him and help with his projects is not very attractive.
Following is exhausting. If you’ve ever had to do it, either on foot or in a car, you know that it is hard work - constantly making sure that you keep an eye on the person you are following.
In today’s gospel the disciple says to Jesus, “I will follow you wherever you go.” The gospel teaches us that, if we want true peace, the path is simple but not easy. We stay behind Him. Wherever he leads, we follow. In a world filled with distractions, it is easy for us to loose sight of Him. This is the only control that really matters. The self-control to let Him be in control. Luckily, for those of us who are baptized, we have a GPS, the Holy Spirit, to always help find our way.
Today let us constantly follow wherever He goes.
