LUKE 9:57–62
THE COST OF FOLLOWING JESUS
Text – Luke 9:57–62
57 As they were proceeding on their journey someone said to him, “I will follow you wherever you go.”
58 Jesus answered him, “Foxes have dens and birds of the sky have nests, but the Son of Man has nowhere to rest his head.”
59 And to another he said, “Follow me.” But he replied, “Lord, let me go first and bury my father.”
60 But he answered him, “Let the dead bury their dead. But you, go and proclaim the kingdom of God.”
61 And another said, “I will follow you, Lord, but first let me say farewell to my family at home.”
62 To him Jesus said, “No one who sets a hand to the plow and looks to what was left behind is fit for the kingdom of God.”
Historical and Jewish Context
Traveling teachers in the ancient Jewish world often attracted followers, but Jesus’ teaching about the cost of discipleship was unusually radical. Rabbis expected hospitality and comfort, yet Jesus declares He has “nowhere to rest,” emphasizing His total detachment. The request to bury a father likely refers not to an immediate funeral but to a cultural expectation that sons remain home until the father’s death, meaning a long delay. Saying farewell also echoes Elisha asking Elijah for permission (1 Kgs 19:19–21), yet Jesus’ mission requires even greater urgency. These interactions reveal the tension between traditional Jewish obligations and the radical call of the Kingdom.
Catholic Theological Perspective
Jesus reveals that discipleship requires absolute priority of God’s Kingdom. Comfort, family obligations, and personal attachments, though good, cannot overshadow the call to follow Christ. His words do not undermine the commandment to honor parents but express the urgency of salvation. This passage forms part of Catholic teaching on vocation, showing that Christ calls each believer to wholehearted commitment. The image of plowing symbolizes steadfastness; divided hearts cannot advance the Gospel. The Church interprets these sayings within the context of the evangelical counsels of poverty, chastity, and obedience.
Parallels in Scripture
1 Kgs 19:19–21 – Elisha’s call prefigures radical discipleship.
Mt 10:37–39 – Loving Christ above family and self.
Phil 3:7–14 – Paul leaves everything behind for Christ.
Heb 12:1–2 – Running with endurance without looking back.
Lk 14:25–33 – Teachings on the cost of discipleship.
Key Terms
Son of Man – Jesus’ self-identification pointing to His mission and humility.
Nowhere to rest His head – Radical poverty and detachment.
Let the dead bury their dead – A prophetic call to prioritize spiritual life.
Hand to the plow – Image of unwavering commitment and focus.
Catholic Liturgical Significance
This passage appears in weekday liturgies, emphasizing commitment, perseverance, and freedom from attachments. It supports catechesis on priestly and religious vocations, and the universal call to holiness. It challenges believers to examine the depth of their discipleship and readiness to place Christ first.
Conclusion
Jesus presents three encounters that reveal the demands of discipleship. Following Him means accepting sacrifice, giving God first place, and refusing to be held back by attachments. The Kingdom calls for undivided hearts and steadfast purpose.
Reflection
What holds me back from fully following Christ? Comfort? Obligations? Fears? Jesus invites me to surrender everything that competes with His call. True discipleship requires trust, courage, and a heart fixed on the Kingdom.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, strengthen my desire to follow You wholeheartedly. Free me from attachments that distract me from Your will. Grant me the courage to walk with You in faith, perseverance, and love, keeping my eyes fixed on Your Kingdom. Amen.