In today’s Gospel we encounter the story of the rich young man who approached Jesus seeking to inherit eternal life. The man was familiar enough to seek out Jesus and his counsel, and so I imagine he may have had in mind what he thought Jesus might say. Jesus in turn challenges the man to make a truly significant commitment – to sell his possessions and follow him.

It would seem this wasn’t the answer the man was hoping for!

This prompts me to reflect on my own attachments and priorities and how I might respond. Are there things that I am prioritising over my relationship with God and others? Am I willing to let go of whatever may hinder me from fully following Christ? Today’s Gospel challenges me to examine my heart and discern where my true treasure lies.

Just as the rich young man struggled with the idea of letting go of his possessions, we too may find it difficult to detach ourselves from the things that hold us back from fully embracing God’s will in our lives. It may not necessarily mean selling all our possessions, but rather letting go of anything that hinders us from wholeheartedly following Christ.

+ Lord, I pray today that you would reveal what may be holding us back from a deeper relationship with you and ask for the grace to let go of anything that prevents us from following you wholeheartedly.

by Emma Plant