The second announcement of his passion and death, by Jesus, is presented in today’s Gospel and it once again baffles the disciples. Probably because this goes against their concept of what their Messiah would be. They envisioned a glorious, triumphant Saviour, not one who would serve, be persecuted and succumb to an ignominious death.

Yet, Jesus keeps reminding his disciples that they need to live their lives in the shadow of the cross: “For your part you must have these words constantly in mind: The Son of Man is going to be delivered into the power of men”.

The disciples needed to be reminded that, just as they professed true faith in their leader, they would also need to follow his example. They would need to be prepared to experience humiliation, suffer and die.

Sometimes we look only to the glory of discipleship and the reward of heaven. We must understand that implicit in an authentic act of faith is the spirit of sacrifice and service that does not count the cost.