it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of the needle than for the one who is rich
to enter the kingdom of heaven.” On hearing this, the disciples were astonished and said,
“Who, then, can be saved?” Jesus looked at them and answered, “For human beings
it is impossible, but for God all things are possible.” Then Peter spoke up and said,
“You see, we have given up everything to follow you. What, then, will there be for us?”
Jesus answered, “You, who have followed me, listen to my words: on the Day
of Renewal, when the Son of Man sits on his throne in glory, you, also, will sit, on twelve
thrones, to judge the twelve tribes of Israel. As for those who have left houses, brothers,
sisters, father, mother, children or property for my Name’s sake, they will receive a
hundredfold, and be given eternal life. Many who are now first, will be last, and many
who are now last, will be first.

Reflect

“Who, then, can be saved?” It is never easy to live up to the challenge of detachment
from materials things. When we give up material possessions, we think that we are in
a losing proposition. We are made to believe that to accumulate things without let up
even at the expense of other people is the way to go. But the Gospel values tell us
otherwise. Wealth in itself is not bad but it becomes enslaving when we appropriate
and accumulate.Jesus calls us to a radical discipleship. He challenges us to let go of
whatever hinders us to share our resources with others especially with those in need.
Today’s Gospel narrates Jesus telling his disciples that it is hard for the rich people to
enter the kingdom of heaven. The disciples were astonished by Jesus’ words because
for them richness would indicate God’s blessings. Hence, the disciples asked who
could be saved if the rich themselves would have difficulty to enter the kingdom of
heaven. Jesus’ answer was clear: “For human beings it is impossible, but for
God all things are possible.” (Mt. 19:26) Nothing is impossible with God. God can
multiply not only the blessings but also the people who are willing to share their
blessings.

© Copyright Bible Diary 2024