Monday August 21, 2023

Matthew 19:16-22

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.’

Giving! By the time I became a priest I would squirm upon hearing that word. It came in threes — give of your time, talent and treasure. It was a weird ask especially after the priest sex abuse scandal. I hated second collections and though not true at all it seemed like my parish priest talked about money a lot. The Truth is he did not but it just seemed so.

A few weeks ago I started a homily by asking what your net worth was. I deliberately let that one hang/suspend a little before talking about our net worth being God.

Anyway, have you, yes you given up your treasures? Remember the first commandment. Love God with all of you? For those rich in worry, learn to trust God. For those attached to whatever, learn detachment and for those in grief try to move towards acceptance. Your loved one wants you alive. Do not die before you die!!

Find your possessions or rather what possesses you and begin to untangle yourself. It here today and maybe gone tomorrow. Love you and be strong as we practice detachment.