Giving up Much – Reflection on Matthew 19:16-22
I will never forget a Baptism when an intellectually disabled young man walked the length of the aisle between pews so he could touch a newly baptized baby. It was electrifying when the baby’s parents gracefully held the baby out to him to let him do so. This moment has come to mind thousands of times when I become aware of a disability. I continue to thank God for those involved in giving up much of themselves so people like this remarkable young man can unconditionally love us. We are all given the ability to be reminded by those around us who are filled with treasures from heaven and echo the unconditional love they have received. Once you begin to do so with your treasures, worldliness becomes less important.
The Rich Young Man Went Away Sorrowful by James Tissot.
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Additional Ordinary Time Reflections
Matthew 19:16-22 – Scripture*
The Rich Young Man
16 Then someone came to him and said, “Teacher, what good deed must I do to have eternal life?” 17 And he said to him, “Why do you ask me about what is good? There is only one who is good. If you wish to enter into life, keep the commandments.” 18 He said to him, “Which ones?” And Jesus said, “You shall not murder; You shall not commit adultery; You shall not steal; You shall not bear false witness; 19 Honor your father and mother; also, You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” 20 The young man said to him, “I have kept all these; what do I still lack?” 21 Jesus said to him, “If you wish to be perfect, go, sell your possessions, and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; then come, follow me.” 22 When the young man heard this word, he went away grieving, for he had many possessions.
Additional Thoughts
Thank you for meditating on this Gospel and reading this Lectio Divina on Matthew 19:16-22 Reflection – Giving up Much.
Would you like to contribute related thoughts to these Lectio reflections on the Gospel readings? Since Lectio is not the only contemplative prayer style, others might appreciate these types of expressions in this ministry. Do you see God’s grandeur everywhere and unconditionally enjoy sharing the love of Christ that you have inside? Are you willing to be anonymous in what you would share? If so, email me.
Prayer for young families:
Lord, let the young families of our communities get to know your joy, peace, comfort, and love despite worldly distractions.
Attributions
*This site has permission to use the New Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition (NRSVCE) Bible Matthew 19 passage.
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This Lectio Reflection on Matthew 19:16-22 on Giving up Much is in the Lectionary season of Ordinary Time.
Additional Lectio Divina Scripture reflections are available by season.