Letting Go to Follow - From Possessions to Purpose

28th Sunday in Ordinary Time: October 13, 2024

Readings: Wisdom 7:7–11; Psalm 90:12–17; Hebrews 4:12–13; Mark 10:17–30

1. The Call to Let Go

In Mark 10:17–30, we find the story of the rich young man who seeks eternal life but is challenged by Jesus to sell his possessions, give to the poor, and follow Him. The young man in the story sincerely desires eternal life and approaches Jesus with respect and eagerness. However, when asked to sell his possessions and give to the poor, he walks away saddened. Following Jesus requires a willingness to let go of earthly or worldly attachments.  Only when you detach from the things here, one will be attached to the above. Jesus does not condemn wealth but rather points out that unreadiness to let go of things is not the true sign of authentic discipleship. What are the things in our lives—possessions, ambitions, habits—that we find difficult to release? Are we willing to put them aside to follow Christ more closely?

Jesus challenges not only the young man in the Gospel but also us as we are part of this human nature which does allow us to be free. Following Jesus requires sacrifices, even if they feel costly. Our commitment to Christ often involves giving up comfort or security. Christ invites us to be God centred than human-centred.

2. Wealth as a responsibility

Jesus invites the young man not just to give up wealth but to share it with those in need. Wealth can be a blessing when it is stewarded responsibly. Rather than accumulating for our own sake, we are called to view our resources as tools for building God’s Kingdom. Do we see our possessions as an opportunity to serve others? How can we use what we have been given to reflect God’s love and compassion in the world?

Jesus tells His disciples that it is difficult for the rich to enter the Kingdom of God, comparing it to a camel passing through the eye of a needle. Material wealth is not the currency to buy the Kingdom of God. What we need is God's grace to see God and not our achievements or wealth. Are we willing to trust in God’s grace and rely on Him to lead us, even when it seems impossible by worldly standards?

3. Openness to the Living and Active Word

Hebrews 4:12–13 emphasizes the power and penetrating nature of God’s Word, reminding us that nothing is hidden from God’s sight. It reveals that God sees all things, even the deepest thoughts and intentions of our hearts. The Word of God is “living and active.” Unlike mere words on a page, God’s Word is alive; it speaks to us, challenges us, and transforms us. The Word of God has the dynamic force to bring about real change in our lives. Are we open to allowing God’s Word to speak to us in new and personal ways? Do we approach Scripture with a sense of reverence and expectation, trusting that it can transform our hearts and minds?

The passage speaks of God’s Word as being able to judge “the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.” This emphasizes that God’s Word not only reveals what we do but why we do it. God sees beyond our actions to our motives, desires, and intentions. In a world where appearances often matter more than authenticity, this passage challenges us to be sincere and transparent before God. Since God already sees and knows everything, we are invited to bring our whole selves—our successes, failures, strengths, and weaknesses—before Him. In this openness, we can experience the transformative power of His Word, which can heal, convict, and lead us closer to His heart. 

Questions for self-reflection

1. How often do I engage with Scripture, and do I approach it with an open heart, expecting to be changed by it?
2. How can I invite God to reveal the true intentions of my heart, and how can I be more sincere in my relationship with Him and others?
3. How can I cultivate a daily practice of bringing my full self—my successes, my failures, my joys, and my pains—into my relationship with God, trusting in His love and grace?

Prayer based on Psalm 90

Loving and Eternal God,

Teach us to number our days, that we may gain hearts of wisdom. In our brief time on earth, help us to live with purpose, seeking to fulfill Your will above all else. Satisfy us each morning with Your unfailing love, so that we may rejoice and be glad all our days.

Let Your favor rest upon us, Lord, and establish the work of our hands. May everything we do bring glory to Your name and reflect Your goodness. Restore us with Your compassion, and may Your glorious presence be seen through us by future generations. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

- Olvin Veigas, SJ

October 10, 2023