The Privileges of Discipleship

2 Dec

Blessed are the eyes that see what you see.
For I say to you,
many prophets and kings desired to see what you see,
but did not see it,
and to hear what you hear, but did not hear it.  (Lk 10:23-24)

Many years ago, American Express used Membership Has Its Privileges as an advertising slogan for their credit card.  They implied that people who owned one of their credit cards would be privileged to receive spectacular discounts and other offers from many businesses and companies.

The advertising campaign worked.  Many people flocked to their card even though they had to pay an annual fee to have one.  Not only did American Express sell many cards, they also got their name out into the general public and had their slogan become a part of our culture.  Many places now talk about the privileges of membership.

One might try to credit American Express with this slogan.  However, I think we could probably credit Jesus with it, as we hear in today’s Gospel.  Jesus was talking about the privileges of membership as a disciple:  “Blessed are the eyes that see what you see.”

We are truly blessed to be disciples of the Lord.  Sadly, some of Jesus’ disciples fail to recognize their blessing.  Instead, lured by the temptations of the world and snares of the devil, they try to find rewards elsewhere.  Taking their eyes off of Jesus, they stumble and drift from the path to the Kingdom.

We are on an important spiritual journey this Advent season.  We are called to focus upon the goal: eternity with the Lord.  One of the ways to keep ourselves focused is to recognize how truly blessed we are to be His disciples.

Recognizing our many blessings, we use them for the benefit of all.  That is what truly pleases our God.

FAITH ACTION:  Ask God to give you a deeper appreciation of the many blessings that have been bestowed upon you.