Gospel 

MT 19:16-22 

A young man approached Jesus and said, “Teacher, what good must I do to gain eternal life?” He answered him, “Why do you ask me about the good? There is only One who is good. If you wish to enter into life, keep the commandments.” He asked him “Which ones?” And Jesus replied “You shall not kill; you shall not commit adultery; you shall not steal; you shall not bear false witness; honor your father and your mother; and you shall love your neighbor as yourself.” The young man said to him, “All of these I have observed. What do I still lack?” Jesus said to him, “If you wish to be perfect, go, sell what you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me. When the young man heard this statement, he went away sad, for he had many possessions.

Sermon

My brothers and sisters in Christ, today's Gospel passage presents us with a young man who is eager to know what he must do to gain eternal life. He approaches Jesus with a sense of confidence, believing that he has already observed all the commandments. But Jesus' response challenges him to rethink his understanding of discipleship.

Jesus lists the commandments, emphasizing the importance of living a moral life. But when the young man asks what he still lacks, Jesus' answer is surprising. He tells the young man to sell his possessions, give to the poor, and follow him. This is not just a suggestion, but a requirement for those who wish to be perfect.

This passage raises important questions for us today. What does it mean to follow Jesus? What is the cost of discipleship? We may think that we are already doing enough, that we are already good enough. But Jesus' words challenge us to consider whether we are truly willing to follow him, no matter the cost.

The young man in the passage goes away sad, unable to accept the challenge that Jesus presents. He is attached to his possessions, and the thought of giving them up is too much for him. But Jesus' words remain, a reminder that true discipleship requires sacrifice and surrender.

As we reflect on this passage, let us ask ourselves: what are we holding onto that prevents us from fully following Jesus? What possessions, habits, or attitudes do we need to let go of in order to truly follow him? May we be willing to take up the challenge of discipleship, even when it is difficult, and may we find the treasure of eternal life in our surrender to Jesus.

Prayer

Let us pray: + In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Almighty, merciful and loving God,

We come before you today, reflecting on the young man who sought eternal life. Help us to examine our own hearts and minds, that we may understand what it truly means to follow you.

Reveal to us the possessions, habits, and attitudes that we hold onto too tightly, preventing us from fully surrendering to you. Give us the courage to let go of these things, that we may take up the challenge of discipleship.

We know that following you requires sacrifice and surrender, but we also know that the treasure of eternal life is worth the cost. Help us to trust in your promise, and to find joy in the journey of discipleship.

May we not be like the young man, who went away sad, unable to accept the challenge. Instead, may we be willing to follow you, no matter the cost, and may we find true life in our surrender to you.

We pray this in Jesus’ most holy name, Amen.

+ In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Peace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you,

Rev. Fr. Jhimerson Maneclang,SCJ