Readings: Judges 6:11-24, Psalm 85 and Matthew 19:23-30
“It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone rich to enter the kingdom of God.’ When the disciples heard this, they were greatly astounded and said, “Then who can be saved?” (Matthew 19:24-25)
A young man approached Jesus to learn how to inherit eternal life. Jesus asked him to give his possessions to the poor so he could have treasures in heaven. The young man walked away sorrowfully. This young man had come to Jesus, hoping that Jesus would praise him for meriting heaven, not knowing that he had made an idol of his wealth. On the last day, many would be shocked by their judgment. It is easy to think we are perfect because we barely see the logs in our eyes.
When Jesus saw how the young man walked away, Jesus declared, “How hard it is for the rich to enter the kingdom of God.” In Mark’s account of this scenario, Jesus clarified this statement by saying: “Children, how hard is it for them that trust in riches to enter into the kingdom of God!” (Mark 10:24). While wealth will not disqualify you from entering heaven, trusting in your wealth will.
There is a particular gate into the city of Jerusalem called “the eye of a needle.” This gate is so small that a camel cannot enter it with its load. The camel can go through this gate but must drop whatever is on its back and squat to pass through it. This has a meaning for everyone. Whether rich or poor, we must let go of our love for earthly possessions to enter heaven.
The disciples asked: “Who then can be saved?” Jesus responded: “With men, this is impossible, but with God, all things are possible.” In other words, we cannot make it if we trust only in ourselves (our riches, fame, intelligence or might).
The truth that with God all things are possible shines out again in today’s First Reading. An Angel of God addressed Gideon as a “mighty man of valour.” Gideon did not believe it until he saw a sign. Gideon was the least in his family, and his clan was the weakest in Israel, yet God chose him to save Israel. Relying on our strength, we are powerless, but all things are possible with God.
The Angel told Gideon, “I will be with you, and you shall smite the Midianites as one man.” Do not trust in whatever you have; place your trust in God. If God could make a man as weak as Gideon, a successful war hero, it tells us that God can take “a nobody” like Mary and turn her into His mother; by this fact, she is the queen of heaven.
Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, may our quest for riches not obstruct our love and devotion to you. We ask this through Our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God forever and ever. Amen.
Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. May God’s abundant blessings be upon us all. (Tuesday of week 20 in Ordinary Time. Liturgical Colour: Green. Bible Study: Judges 6:11-24, Psalm 85 and Matthew 19:23-30)
@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu