Cathedral Homilies - August 25 (Fr. Bong)

Summary

The video script explores the distinction between being a 'Disciple' and a 'Fan' of Jesus Christ. It draws parallels to modern-day celebrities and their fans, highlighting the superficiality of mere admiration versus the commitment of discipleship. The script challenges viewers to reflect on their motives for following Jesus, emphasizing that true discipleship is not about seeking entertainment or miracles, but about embracing Jesus' teachings—even when they are challenging and lead to sacrifice. It poses the question of whether we are merely fans or true disciples willing to be influenced by Jesus' hard truths for the sake of eternal life.

Takeaways

• 😇 The distinction between 'Disciples' and 'Fans Club' is highlighted, with the former being deeply committed followers and the latter being more casual admirers.
• 👥 The 'Fans Club' is likened to modern-day celebrity followers, where there's a mutual dependency based on performance and entertainment.
• 🎭 Celebrities must consistently perform to maintain their fan base, and a decline in performance can lead to a loss of popularity and fame.
• 🌟 People may follow celebrities for various reasons, such as their looks, talents, or simply for the entertainment they provide, even amidst scandals.
• 📈 In the digital age, influencers and vloggers must continually produce new and engaging content to retain their followers, often resorting to controversial topics to capture attention.
• 🍞 The script recounts how some people followed Jesus for the miracles and benefits they received, rather than a genuine desire to learn from him.
• 🛐 The true Disciples of Jesus were committed to him not for miracles or fame, but because he offered the words of eternal life, despite the teachings being challenging.
• 🔄 The dependency of celebrities on their fans contrasts with the dependency of Disciples on Jesus, which is not swayed by external factors or entertainment.
• 🗣️ Jesus' teachings were not meant to entertain but to challenge and guide his followers towards eternal life, setting a stark contrast to the nature of celebrity followership.
• 🚶 The challenge posed to the audience is to reflect on whether they are mere fans or true Disciples, willing to follow Jesus' teachings regardless of the challenges.
• 🌐 The script concludes by considering Jesus as the ultimate influencer, questioning whether his followers would allow him to influence every aspect of their lives.

Q & A

What is the primary distinction between the 'Disciples of Jesus' and the 'Fans Club of Jesus' as mentioned in the script?

The primary distinction lies in their purpose for following Jesus. The 'Disciples of Jesus' are committed to learning and following his teachings, even if they are challenging, for the promise of eternal life. The 'Fans Club of Jesus', on the other hand, may be drawn to Jesus for his miracles or popularity, similar to how fans are drawn to celebrities for their performances and charisma.

How does the script describe the relationship between celebrities and their fans clubs?

The script describes a mutual dependency between celebrities and their fans clubs. Celebrities perform for their fans, and their popularity is contingent on the fans' reactions. If a celebrity fails to entertain, their fan base may diminish, affecting their fame and career.

What are some reasons people might follow a celebrity according to the script?

People might follow a celebrity because of their looks, talents, or simply because they are entertained by what they see and hear. Even if a celebrity is involved in scandals, fans may not mind as long as they continue to be entertained.

How has the concept of being a 'follower' evolved in the context of vloggers and influencers as per the script?

The script suggests that followers of vloggers and influencers are drawn to their content, which can be educational, inspirational, or simply relatable. Influencers must consistently provide new and engaging content to maintain their followers' attention, and a lack of content can lead to being forgotten.

What were some of the motives of people following Jesus during the time of his ministry, as described in the script?

Some people followed Jesus because they saw him as someone who could perform miracles, like multiplying bread and fish, and curing the sick. They were entertained by his miracles and followed him for the benefits they received, rather than a deeper commitment to his teachings.

How does the script differentiate between being entertained by Jesus' miracles and being a true disciple?

Being entertained by Jesus' miracles is akin to being a fan, where the focus is on the spectacle and immediate benefits. Being a true disciple, however, involves a commitment to Jesus' teachings, even when they are difficult, and is driven by the understanding that he offers the words of eternal life.

What does the script suggest about the nature of truth and teachings of Jesus?

The script suggests that Jesus' truths and teachings are not meant to entertain or comfort, but to challenge. They require a commitment beyond mere entertainment, calling for a deeper understanding and application in one's life.

How does the script relate the concept of discipleship to the modern context of influencers and vloggers?

The script draws a parallel between the commitment of a disciple and the engagement of a follower of influencers or vloggers. It challenges the audience to consider whether they would follow Jesus if he were an influencer today, based on the content of his teachings rather than mere entertainment value.

What challenge does the script pose to the audience regarding their commitment to Jesus?

The script challenges the audience to reflect on whether they are mere fans, entertained by the spectacle of Jesus' ministry, or true disciples who are committed to following his teachings and learning from his example, even in the face of adversity.

How does the script encourage the audience to view their relationship with Jesus in the context of the Eucharist?

The script encourages the audience to see the Eucharist as a reminder of their commitment to follow Jesus not just as admirers but as disciples. It suggests that through the Eucharist, they should be reminded of their willingness to follow the path of eternal life as true disciples.