As we approach the end of Lent, Lauren and Jon invite you to consider letting go (fasting from) of unhealthy attachments to wealth, power and position…and embracing (or feasting on) being generous to others. We take a look at the familiar parable of the Rich Young Ruler, in which a privileged man of Jesus’ day comes to him, honestly searching for wholeness. While he is fully aware of, and observes, the requirements of the law, his attachment to material possessions is a real obstacle to living a full life with Jesus. Think about what holds you back from sharing what you have with others. Take a moment to think about someone who has shown amazing generosity to others. Often this is someone who has less, yet shares more.
I appreciate the image you selected for today’s reading. This illustration shows Jesus in the center between two worlds – two classes of people who don’t traditionally interact, and it is, as Lauren mentions, an invitation for the wealthy one to come to the other side. Jesus’ hands are suggestive, rather than commanding. The wealthy man looks downward, as if he is seriously contemplating the weight of Jesus’ words, rather than rejecting them. It was a lot for him to take in – this was not what his culture (or ours) told him to aspire towards and to value. The truth is we do not know what the young man did. I agree with you – Jesus knows what it is that separates the young man from following Him, and is inviting him to give up his present life as he knows it, in order to enter into a deeper relationship with Him. I am thinking about St. Francis and Sister Clare as great examples of two young people who literally did what Jesus said, and spent the rest of their lives in ministry to the poor and consequently, changed the world and the Church.
Scarcity or Generosity
This week lesson I think, I understood why this young man could not make a decision to give up his wealth and power to follow Jesus.,
Maybe he felt that because of his wealth and power he was entitled to a place ahead of others. Maybe he felt he was better then other who was less fortunate .
Or maybe he was scared.
Yes it’s good to be able to live a life without worrying about surviving the pit falls that can happen with losing a home, food or other comfort in life.
Today people put so much energy on power of status in life.
I believe when one is generous with their time, money or just a caring person . it will make one feel that it’s the real reward.
Besides we was born with nothing (money, material things) in our pockets and can’t take any with us.
What God see’s is that we did our best to treat other with respect and kindness.
So that is our reward.
Take care Josie
Discontent or Hope
Times in my life, I have felt a great deal of discontent in myself and others. Like when my life felt out of control and didn’t know the answer. I always tried to be a good caring person and then something happens that I question why me. Maybe it should had been why not me.
Maybe God wanted me to learn a lesson. We must learn when some bad things happen. We must make a chose to not lose hope that the Sun will come out again.
With so much hate, different opinion and self absorbed society it’s hard to have HOPE.
My only way to keep HOPE in my life, is to be a good example and pray. I may fall down from time to time. But must move forward with Hope.
I enjoyed these past weeks. Thank you Jon and Lauren.
Take care. Happy Easter.
Josie