Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

Today’s readings speak with one clear voice about God’s call, the cost of responding to that call, and the unity that must mark those who belong to Christ.

Isaiah proclaims a people who once walked in darkness but have now seen a great light. This is not because they found the light by their own effort, but because God came looking for them. The light shines in Galilee; a place considered ordinary, even insignificant.

This reminds us that God’s call often comes into the ordinary spaces of our lives: our families, workplaces, struggles, and weaknesses. Discipleship always begins with God’s initiative. Before we respond, God has already spoken; before we follow, God has already shone His light upon us.

In the Gospel, Jesus calls Simon Peter, Andrew, James, and John with simple but demanding words: “Come after me.” Immediately, they leave their nets, their boats, and even their father.

This is where we encounter the cost of discipleship. Following Jesus is not a hobby or a part-time commitment. It requires letting go: of security, old habits, selfish ambitions, and anything that keeps us from fully trusting God.

Notice also that Jesus does not call them individually to walk alone; He calls them into a community of disciples. Discipleship is never a solo journey. To follow Christ is to belong to His Body, the Church.

Saint Paul addresses a painful reality in the Church at Corinth: divisions. “I belong to Paul,” “I belong to Apollos,” “I belong to Cephas.” Paul reminds them—and us—that Christ is not divided.

Division weakens our witness. When Christians are divided by pride, tribalism, personal loyalties, or power struggles, the light of Christ is dimmed. The cross, which Paul preaches, calls us to humility, self-emptying, and reconciliation.

To be disciples of Jesus means to live as one family, united not by personality, culture, or preference, but by the cross of Christ and our baptism as children of God.

These readings challenge us with three important questions:

1. Have I truly responded to Christ’s call, or am I still holding onto my “nets”?
2. Am I willing to pay the cost of discipleship? Trusting God even when it is uncomfortable or demanding?
3. Do I contribute to unity in the Church, or do my words and actions deepen division?

Jesus still walks along the shores of our lives today, calling each of us by name. He calls us to follow Him, to grow in faith, and to live in unity as brothers and sisters.

As children of God, called out of darkness into His marvellous light, may we respond generously to Christ’s call, embrace the cost of discipleship with faith, and work tirelessly for unity in His Church. United in Christ, the Light of the world, we become a living sign of hope for a world still longing for God’s light.

Your Priest,

Fr. Anthony Dim