The rich young man: Matthew 19:16-30
Imaginative Contemplation
Enter into the scene
I am very disappointed. The sun seems to have disappeared from my life. I had such high hopes. But now I don’t know what to do.
I have always tried to live a good life, keeping the commandments and regularly attending the Synagogue. Then someone told me about this new evangelist who was drawing crowds from all over the place. For a long time I sensed that there was something missing in my life, and when I heard about this Jesus, my heart leaped with joy. Perhaps he can help me. I would be able to pay him, too.
I decided to go and meet him. I set out in high hopes on a brisk sunny morning, and met him some distance away, sitting by the roadside. ‘What good thing must I do to receive eternal life?’ I asked. ‘Why do you ask me concerning what is good? There is only one who is good. Keep the commandments if you want to enter life.’ Said Jesus. ‘What commandments?’ I asked, expecting to hear some of the more obtuse ones. But no, he listed those human responses which build community... don’t murder, don’t commit adultery, don’t steal, don’t lie, honour your father and mother, and love your fellow human beings as you love yourself.” I was surprised, and even a little disappointed. ‘But I have kept all those since I was a child! What else do I need to do?’ I asked. Jesus replied, ‘If you want to be perfect, go and sell all you have and give the money to the poor, and you will have riches in heaven; then come and follow me.’ Was I hearing right? The money I have shows how careful I am. I take it as a sign of God’s approval. I can give up some things, but not the money I rely on so much. Well, that’s the end of my dream. I went home very sad, full of money but empty of a sense of fulfilment.
For further reflection
Discuss with Jesus the following points:
· If I were to ask Jesus what I need to do to enter heaven, how would he answer me?
· Where does my treasure lie?
· In my life, which is more important, things or people?
· How do I spend my money? Could I be more generous to worthy causes?
Prayer
Take, Lord, receive all I have. May I use your gifts for your greater glory. Amen.