Renunciation means opting for something or someone more important than what is left behind. If we resign from a job it is because we have found a better paid post or better working conditions. In a family, some parents give up their rest and much of their own comfort in order to look after their children, whom they love. Every important choice supposes renunciation. And being a disciple of Jesus also implies renunciation. It’s not about brute strength. Just renouncing without something more is weak, it isn’t possible.
The parable of the hidden treasure explains very clearly what renunciation means for a Christian: ‘The kingdom of heaven is like a treasure, hidden in a field. The one who finds it, buries it again; and so happy is he, that he goes and sells everything he has, in order to buy that field.’ (Mt 13:44)
Only out of joy can he sell everything and renounce the rest in order to buy the field which contains the treasure. On opting for Jesus, what we receive is infinitely greater than what we leave. And when our joy overflows, doesn’t it infect everyone around us?
Haven’t you known people who, although financially poor, still radiate happiness? Perhaps this would be a good moment to be grateful for and think of the gift of having encountered Jesus.
What has following Jesus meant in my life? Do I live with a grateful heart, like someone who has found the greatest of treasures?