In this Sunday’s Gospel, a rich man asks Jesus, “What must I do to have eternal life?” Jesus reminds us that eternal life in the kingdom of God is worth more than all our earthly possessions. The importance that we sometimes attach to our possessions makes it harder for us to let them go.
Today’s Scriptures invite us to seek wisdom about the priority we place on the things that we treasure. “I prayed, and understanding was given me; I begged the Lord, and the spirit of Wisdom came to me.” How would we respond to Jesus’ invitation to let go and stay connected?
In recent times, we have been taught that we must pay attention to the things that matter the most. Staying connected with God, family, friends, those in need, and our health are what matters. These relationships are the source of our love and connection, and may we never take things or people for granted.
While having material goods is not bad, the importance we sometimes place on them above the things that matter the most doesn’t always make us happy. Our focus must be on trusting in God and his call on our lives. This trust in God brings security and hope, and eternal life is our greatest gift.
Our understanding of the kingdom of God expands when we embrace those whom society often excludes. A dear friend of mine often says, “A simple life lived for others is all it takes to rest in God’s loving embrace.” Detachment from the things that possess our priorities is one of the ways where we can experience eternal life.