Matthew 19:21
“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.”
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How many times have we prayed like this – “Lord, I will donate to a charity, if you will heal me of my lingering illness”, or “Jesus, I will hear mass everyday, if you would let me pass my exam tomorrow”? This is a selfish prayer, for we are selfish people.
We are all called to a life of holiness and obedience to His will. In fact, Christ is calling us to a life of perfection – loving one another unselfishly and unconditionally. Following Christ will fill the void in our hearts and will earn us the gift of eternal life. However, we are not generous. Our love, like the man in today’s gospel, is conditional and not willing to make the necessary sacrifices for Christ.
Christ has given us the Gospel to know, love and imitate Him. He shared to us how we shall face the reality of discipleship. That is, we must be ready not only to enjoy the benefits of friendship - knowledge, wisdom, understanding, peace, joy - but also to love Him unconditionally whatever the cost may be.
Christ has already provided us with His example of unconditional love – suffering and dying on the cross so our sins may be forgiven. There is nothing He did not give for our salvation. He only asks that we love Him in return.
I pray to be perfect. I pray that I may forego of everything. I pray that finally, I may come to Him and follow Him.
Unconditionally. No matter what.
Let us pray +
Lord Jesus Christ, I want to be Your disciple of unconditional love who accompanies You through joys and sufferings. I only ask You to be patient with me and grant me the grace to be faithful. My life is Yours, use me for the salvation of souls and for Your greater glory. Amen +
Remember us, O Lord, as you favor your people.
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