“If anyone comes to me and does not hate father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters – yes, even their own life – such a person cannot be my disciple.” (Luke 14:26)

“If anyone comes to me and does not hate father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters – yes, even their own life – such a person cannot be my disciple.” (Luke 14:26)

“Love” and “Hate” are contrasting words often used in describing what we like or dislike. Thus, Jesus, like any good teacher, uses this as a basis for teaching…to get His students thinking. It is a metaphor in prioritizing our relationships by putting God first and foremost. 

It might sound harsh and seem rather odd to our ears that one should “hate” their family, but this isn’t the point, or even the meaning. It is hatred by comparison, and not absolute hatred in itself. Thus, it is not a heartless decree, but a challenge for us to love and honor God above all else, which in turn allows us to love our families, relatives, and even ourselves all the more!

Fr. John