August 19, 2024
Matthew 19: 16-22
https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/081924.cfm
Less or More?
Can you imagine what went through the young man’s heart when Jesus looked at him with love? The closest image that comes to mind is the love a mother has for her child, the first moment when a nurse lays her newborn in her arms. The young man’s longing to do the right thing catches Jesus’s attention.
We know he wanted this because he kept all the commandments but wanted more. Unfortunately, he wasn’t ready to give more, that is, give his whole heart and soul to Jesus. His heart was attached to his possessions. To live in this world with the heart of Jesus, the young man had to “sell what you have and give to the poor.”
It seems that Jesus was already in his heart because the “poor” rich young man went away sad. He was willing to live with “less” that he had than the “more” Jesus wanted to give him.
How much Jesus wants to live in our hearts so freely. Are we willing to sacrifice a resentment we have toward someone or some of our time to help out in ministry in the church? What must we do to possess everlasting life?
Gospel Challenge:
Remember the mother holding her baby in her arms? What did she see? What does Jesus say when we go before him in the Blessed Sacrament? Our clothes? Our homes? Our cars? Or even our bank accounts? What does He see?
Peace everyone.
Love Your Neighbor!
Fr. Rick Pilger, IC
pastor@bscchurch.com