Ord. Wk 20th August 21, 2018
Reflection on the WORD
God’s Strength: In today’s Gospel, Jesus assured His disciples that to enter the Kingdom of Heaven is possible, if we trust God fully. As human creatures, pride is our greatest temptation. God will never fail to give us His Strength, Light and Love if we truly desire to love Him more deeply.
Mt 19:23-28, 30
Jesus said to his disciples, ‘In truth I tell you, it is hard for someone rich to enter the kingdom of Heaven. Yes, I tell you again, it is easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle than for someone rich to enter the kingdom of Heaven.’ When the disciples heard this they were astonished. ‘Who can be saved, then?’ they said.
Jesus gazed at them. ‘By human resources’, he told them, ‘this is impossible; for God everything is possible.’ Then Peter answered and said, ‘Look, we have left everything and followed you. What are we to have, then?’
Jesus said to them, ‘In truth I tell you, when everything is made new again and the Son of man is seated on his throne of glory, you yourselves will sit on twelve thrones to judge the twelve tribes of Israel. Many who are first will be last, and the last, first.’
Today's Pointers on God's Word
As you read the passage what words, phases or meanings caught your attention?
- In yesterday’s Gospel reading, we heard of the rich young man who could not give up his wealth in order to follow Jesus.
- The lure of riches is indeed so strong that even Peter asked Jesus what reward he and the apostles can expect from Jesus.
- In the practice of our Christian faith, do we also bargain with God by asking what we can expect to receive if we follow Jesus’ teachings? Should we not instead focus on pleasing God, confident that He will provide for all our needs?