Daily Reflection Monday of the Eighth Week in Ordinary Time

The man in today’s gospel desires desperately to join Jesus’ disciples. He is striving “to inherit eternal life.” However, one thing stands in his way – he has too many possessions. The man means well as he tells Jesus, rather confidently, that he has observed all of the commandments faithfully. Then Jesus challenges him with the magis question: What “more” can I do – will I do – for Jesus Christ? The instruction to sell his possessions and give the money to the poor causes the man to turn around and walk away. He is weighed down by his possessions. Indeed, it seems as if they possess him, making it impossible for him to attain his goal.



Maybe one of the saddest experiences in life is when we know our heart’s desire but we just do not have the will to pursue it because we are encumbered by too many other interests. The rich man is not a bad person; he has not committed any bad action. But he is distracted.



Today would be a good day to consider our own life path. Ask yourself: What is the goal of my life? Also, how do I hope to attain this goal? In contemplating our path of life, we need to remember, as Jesus says, with God all things are possible.