Through the Needle’s Eye
Dear friends,
In our gospel reading for Sunday, we hear the familiar story of the “Rich Young Prince” or simply “The Rich Man,” who comes to Jesus with a simple question, followed by a simple answer. Yet, for this wealthy man, this brief conversation changes everything. “What must I do to inherit eternal life?” the man asks. “You know the commandments,” Jesus answers.
Jesus senses a deep sincerity in his question, recognizes his seeking heart, and looks upon him with great love. So, he tells him honestly, “You lack one thing. Go, sell what you own, and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; then come, follow me.” This startles the man so much that he doesn’t say another word but leaves grieving because he has many possessions. Or we could say, many of his possessions “have” him.
What would Jesus say to you or me? What is our “one thing”? Of all that keeps us from wholeheartedly following his way, what most blocks us and gives us grief? What do we possess that, in truth, possesses us? Likely it’s something good in right measure, but something we have come to depend upon, something that causes us to forget who and whose we really are.
In today’s culture, it is likely to do with money, power, or appearance, but it might present itself in other guises, such as being responsible, working hard, being loyal, and well-liked, or “taking care of ourselves” and our causes. As my spiritual director puts it, “Anything that steals us away from complete trust in God and tries to convince us we are in control is worth trying to give away.”
“How hard it will be for those who have wealth to enter the realm of God!” Jesus says. Money is not the only sign of wealth. Think of all we could include here: our health, communities and families, education, engaging activities, houses and cars, books, and pets. These are all good things, and I don’t believe Jesus is asking us to toss them all out. Perhaps, instead, we’re asked to practice releasing them to the care of God. And if you are like me, that isn’t always easy. I spend a lot of time and energy trying to control the things I value!
I like to imagine that after some time, the rich man in the gospel returned to Jesus and found what he was truly seeking. I want to believe he did learn to live and love more fully by letting go. My hope for all of us is that we find the same kind of freedom in letting go of the things that have a hold on us. I also hope that there are people we can return to who can help us discover what we’re truly seeking. I am well aware of the blessings I’ve received when someone is lovingly there for me, just as much as I remember the joy I experience when I go the extra mile for someone in need. I bet you do, too.
In Christ,
Amelie
