The Gospel for this Sunday presents us with a challenging invitation from Jesus. Peter has just recognized Jesus as the Messiah, but he struggles to understand what kind of Messiah Jesus is. Jesus speaks openly about His suffering, death, and resurrection. Peter finds this difficult to accept, yet Jesus reminds him—and us—that following Him means more than simply believing in Him. It means surrendering our lives to God.

Jesus says, “Whoever wishes to come after me must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me.” These words are not a call to seek suffering, but an invitation to faithful love and self-giving. Every one of us carries a cross: responsibilities, disappointments, sacrifices, struggles, illness, family concerns, or moments when doing what is right becomes difficult. When united with Christ, our crosses can become paths to deeper faith and holiness.

St. Paul reminds us in the second reading: “Offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God.” Christian discipleship is therefore not something we practice only on Sundays. It is a daily offering of ourselves to God—in our families, our workplaces, our relationships, and our service to others.

This weekend, we have beautiful opportunities to place our lives before the Lord. On Friday, September 4, we will have First Friday Adoration at 11 A.M., followed by the Healing Mass at 12 noon. Let us bring our burdens, wounds, and hopes before Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament and trust in His healing love.

On Saturday, September 5, our First Saturday devotion dedicated to our Blessed Mother begins with Adoration at 7:30 A.M., followed by Mass at 8 A.M. in honor of Mary. May Mary teach us, as she did throughout her life, to say a wholehearted “yes” to God.

Let us ask for the grace not to run away from our crosses, but to carry them with Jesus, trusting that love, sacrifice, and faithfulness always lead us toward new life.

Let us Pray: Lord Jesus, give us the courage to take up our crosses and follow You faithfully. Heal our hearts, strengthen our faith, and teach us through Mary to say “yes” to Your will. May our lives become a living offering of love to You and to others. Amen.

God’s Blessings,

Fr. Charley