The Holy Gospel according to Matthew 19:16-22
A young man approached Jesus and said,
“Teacher, what good must I do to gain eternal life?”
He answered him, “Why do you ask me about the good?
There is only One who is good.
If you wish to enter into life, keep the commandments.”
He asked him, “Which ones?”
And Jesus replied, “You shall not kill;
you shall not commit adultery;
you shall not steal;
you shall not bear false witness;
honor your father and your mother;
and you shall love your neighbor as yourself.”
The young man said to him,
“All of these I have observed. What do I still lack?”
Jesus said to him, “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.”
When the young man heard this statement, he went away sad,
for he had many possessions.
Reflection:
When Jesus invites us with the words “Then Come. Follow Me”. He extends a deep and personal call to discipleship, a connection with him and a bond of Faith. Think about it, when you are in a relationship with anyone and you will hear words of comfort therefore, you will follow each other. This transformation not only happens with God but often happens when you have some type of friendship with someone. Discipleship is not a solitary path but involves journeying with others in the community of the Church. It is much easier and fulfilling to do this in solidarity. Engaging with fellow believers provides support and encouragement as one strives to live out their faith.
Jesus’ call to “Follow me” is an invitation to enter into a deep, personal relationship with Him. It’s about knowing Christ, building a relationship, loving Him, and allowing His presence to guide all aspects of one’s life. This call requires a wholehearted commitment to turning away from sin and continually converting one’s heart towards God. It’s a continuing process of spiritual growth and renewal that will never cease.
Following Christ means striving to imitate His virtues, such as love, mercy, humility, and forgiveness. It’s a call to live according to the Gospel, exemplifying the Beatitudes, and being witnesses of His love in the world, and as I mentioned earlier, carrying the cross for others. Jesus’ invitation also involves participating in His mission of proclaiming the Good News and serving others, especially the marginalized and those in need. Followers of Christ are called to be the salt of the earth and the light of the world (Matthew 5:13-16).
Action of the Day: Give yourself sometime to meditate or even journal. Ask yourself and in contemplation, ask God what is it that you’ve been asking me to follow you?
Audio Reflection:
