When someone comes to me with this question, I can usually hear something deeper behind it. We all sense that Jesus’ words, “Follow me,” are not just a kind invitation, but also a serious one. They sound simple, almost gentle—yet they carry a weight that stirs the soul. To follow Jesus is not merely to admire Him from a distance, but to step into a living relationship that slowly reshapes who we are.
In the Gospels, when Jesus says “Follow me,” He is first of all calling a person, not recruiting a role. Think of how He looks at fishermen, tax collectors, and ordinary people—and speaks directly to their lives. In Gospel of Matthew, we hear Him say, “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.” He does not outline a full plan or explain every difficulty ahead. He simply invites trust: Walk with me. Learn from me. Let your life unfold in my presence.
The Church teaches us that following Jesus means sharing His way of life. It involves listening to His words, shaping our choices by His love, and allowing our hearts to be changed over time. This is why Jesus also speaks of taking up the cross—not as a threat, but as an honest reminder that love often costs something. To follow Him is to let go of what closes us in on ourselves, so that we may learn how to love as He loves.
For our daily lives, this calling is both humble and profound. Most of us will not leave our jobs or travel distant roads, yet Jesus still says “Follow me” in the quiet places of our days—how we forgive, how we speak, how we care for those entrusted to us. Each small act of faith becomes a step taken behind Him. Little by little, we discover that following Jesus is not about losing ourselves, but about finally becoming who we were meant to be.
A Closing Reflection
Jesus still walks ahead of us, never forcing, always inviting.
May we find the courage to follow—not perfectly, but sincerely—trusting that His path always leads us closer to life.
— Fr. John Matthew, for Christian Way
