The theme of discipleship continues. In today’s first reading more is given for the disciple to keep in mind, namely follow the commandments, but not only whenever is convenient but every day of the life given.   In the papacy of John Paul II there was a theological dispute. There are those who are called proportionalists who claim that is the overall actions in life that matter. They put all actions in a balance, and if there is more good than bad done, that will be sufficient for salvation.  The pope wrote an encyclical called Veritatis Splendor (the Splendor of Truth) rejecting this claim, saying every action (each one) matters.  The disciple needs to be aware they are called to follow the commandments not only in instances, but every day, every time.  Moses makes it clear that the commandments are to be kept all days of life, not just for a little while, not just when it’s convenient. A disciple is called to life a good moral life throughout based on love of God and of love of neighbor.  Following the commandments should not be a burden or something mechanic, but rather should bring joy in the heart knowing God’s will is being done. Following the commandments is not about trying to find a loophole, and just doing them out of obligation, but rather to follow them and living them with all soul and strength.   If the commandments are followed, there will be prosperity in life, things will be better.   If goodness is lived and shared, that’s precisely what the person will get in return. If a bad disposition, a bad temper is exhibited, that’s what the person will get in return. As disciples grow in their understanding of the commandments, they will have a long life and will receive what they give in return many times more.  A disciple is invited to be like the Master, and live a life striving to be holy, and undefiled, and separated from sin.  If the disciple tries to do so, then at the end of life, the disciple may receive the same words Jesus said to the scribe, “You are not far from the kingdom of God.”  By being a good, moral person following the commandments, the disciple might just get into heaven.