Gospel Reflection for: August 19, 2024
Daily Gospel Reading: Matthew 19:16-22 NRSVCE
In Matthew 19:16-22, we meet a young man who seems to have it all. He’s wealthy, follows the rules, and even approaches Jesus with a sincere question: “What must I do to inherit eternal life?” Jesus’ response might surprise us. It’s not just about doing good deeds; it’s about a radical shift in priorities.
More Than Just Checking the Boxes:
Think about those times when you’ve gone above and beyond – helping a neighbor, volunteering your time, giving to charity. It feels good to do good, right? But Jesus challenges the young man (and us) to go deeper. It’s not just about following the rules; it’s about having a heart that truly loves God and others.
- Imagine you’re planning a surprise party for a friend. You could just buy a cake and decorations, but if you really love them, you’ll put thought and effort into making it personal and special. That’s the kind of wholehearted love Jesus is talking about.
The Things We Hold Onto:
Jesus tells the young man to sell all his possessions and give to the poor. This sounds extreme, but it highlights something we all struggle with: attachments. It might not be wealth for us; it could be our career, our reputation, or even a toxic relationship. These things can become idols in our lives, taking priority over our relationship with God.
- Think about a time you’ve felt stuck because you were afraid to let go of something familiar, even if it wasn’t healthy. Jesus is inviting us to loosen our grip on those things and trust that he has something even better in store.
The Cost of True Freedom:
The young man walks away sad because he’s not willing to let go of his wealth. It’s a heartbreaking moment. We all have those moments where we face a choice between comfort and following Jesus wholeheartedly. It’s scary to step outside our comfort zones, but that’s often where true growth and freedom happen.
- Imagine you have a dream job offer in a new city. It’s exciting, but it also means leaving behind your friends, family, and familiar surroundings. That’s the kind of risk Jesus calls us to take – stepping out in faith, even when it’s uncomfortable.
A Prayer for Open Hands:
Jesus, show us what we might be holding onto too tightly. Give us the courage to let go of anything that hinders our relationship with you. Help us to follow you wholeheartedly, even when it’s scary or uncertain. May we find true joy and freedom in surrendering to your will. Amen.
Remember: Following Jesus isn’t always easy. It requires sacrifice, surrender, and a willingness to step outside our comfort zones. But the reward is immeasurable – a life filled with purpose, meaning, and the deep joy of walking with God.
May God bless you all, and may His love guide you in every step you take.
Amen.