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17 The Rich Man


Gospel
Matthew 19:16-22
If you wish to be perfect, go and sell what you own

There was a man who came to Jesus and asked, ‘Master, what good deed must I do to possess eternal life?’ Jesus said to him, ‘Why do you ask me about what is good? There is one alone who is good. But if you wish to enter into life, keep the commandments.’ He said, ‘Which?’ ‘These:’ Jesus replied ‘You must not kill. You must not commit adultery. You must not bring false witness. Honour your father and mother, and: you must love your neighbour as yourself.’ The young man said to him, ‘I have kept all these. What more do I need to do?’ Jesus said, ‘If you wish to be perfect, go and sell what you own and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; then come, follow me.’ But when the young man heard these words he went away sad, for he was a man of great wealth.

 Reflection
This passage challenges us to look beyond mere religious compliance. The young man lived a moral life, yet sensed a lingering emptiness. Jesus identifies the specific attachment holding him back: his great wealth. Choosing "perfection" or "life" isn't about collecting merits, but about emptying our hands to receive God's kingdom. The man’s sadness reveals a profound truth: what we possess can eventually possess us. Jesus’ invitation to "sell all" is not a call to deprivation, but a path to true freedom. We are invited to let go of earthly security to follow the One who is our only true treasure.

 Question for Reflection
What is the "one thing" in my life—whether a possession, a habit, or an ambition—that I would find most difficult to let go of if Jesus asked me to?

 Prayer
Lord, grant me the courage to hold the things of this world loosely. Help me to seek my security in You alone rather than in my possessions or achievements. When You call me to follow, give me a heart that responds with joy rather than sadness, trusting that You are my greatest reward. Amen.


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