Daily Gospel Reflection for August 21, 2023

Join us as we reflect, ponder, and pray together inspired by today's Gospel.

Reflection by Colleen Rooney

Today's Gospel: Matthew 19:16:22

The story of the rich young man troubles many listeners. He approaches Jesus with the question, “Teacher, what good must I do to gain eternal life?”

Our Lord responds, "If you wish to enter into life, keep the commandments.”

The young man asks, “Which ones?”

Our Lord enumerates the commandments to him, and the young man responds, “All these I have observed. What do I still lack?” We know from his answer that he is a good young man, a pure and faithful young man. He has met the person of Jesus, true God, and true Man, and it is a deeper meeting than he was prepared for.

Jesus answers his question, “If you wish to be be perfect, go, sell what you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.”

We know that the young man went away sorrowful because he had many possessions.

While it is true and sad that he missed this incredible, personal invitation from Christ to follow Him, I like to think that he went on to mull over what Jesus had asked of him and tried bit by bit to untangle his attachment to his possessions, gradually distributing his wealth to the poor, and finding deep joy in heaven’s treasures.

Of course, we do not know for certain what became of the rich young man. However, I don’t think Jesus was finished with him when he walked away. Our Lord can bring great good out of our missteps in life if we but trust Him. After all Christ is the hound of heaven!

Ponder:

Do I trust that Jesus can bring great good out of my life's missteps?

Pray:

Lord, I am like the rich young man attached to many possessions, not yet perfect. Please send Your grace that I may respond more fully to Your invitation to follow You.

Click to tweet:
I like to think that the rich young man went on to mull over what Jesus had asked of him and tried bit by bit to untangle his attachment to his possessions. #DailyGospel

Copyright 2023 Colleen Rooney

Colleen Rooney is the author of Celebrating Advent and Christmas with Children. She blogs at foodsandfestivitiesofthechristianyear.blogspot.com and her website is celebratecatholiclife.com. She is a wife, mother, and grandmother.