RBWords

     I once heard it said, "Be careful what you pray for - you may get it."  The man who asked Jesus the question quoted from today's gospel scripture was obviously not expecting the answer Jesus gave him.  What Jesus advised him was two-fold: 1) sell what he had and give it to the poor; and 2} come, follow me.  We are told that the man went away sad, "for he had many possessions."  His possessions were the obstacle to his faith.  When Jesus comments about this, the disciples are amazed because, like most of their culture, wealth was thought to be a sign of God's favor.

     How would we respond to Jesus' challenge?  One of the motivations that got me to thinking about religious life when I was a college undergrad was what I noticed about some of the guys I lived with in the dorm.  They were far wealthier than I was, but I did not see much happiness in them.  I did not come from an economically poor family but it became clear to me that something other than money had to lead to happiness.  My faith and God's mysterious providence led to a way that has been a very happy one for me.  As it is, I still have too much "stuff" and it is a constant challenge to ask, "Why do you need this or that?"

     When we respond to Jesus' challenge, we may find it is not physical possessions.  It may be addictions or relationships or an activity.  What are the stumbling blocks in the way to follow Jesus?  Asking the question is the first step to getting the answer.  Are we afraid of the answer?  AMEN