Homily Twentieth Monday of Ordinary Time (Mr. 19:16-22) “We Don’t Earn Heaven”
Homily Twentieth Monday of Ordinary Time (Mr. 19:16-22) “We Don’t Earn Heaven”
The story of the wealthy man who comes to Jesus asking what he must do to gain eternal life is in all three Gospels. This would suggest that this is an important exchange in the life of Christ and a profound teaching moment.
The man has a view of spirituality like the Pharisees. The Pharisees believed that living in harmony with God was all about keeping the rules. Salvation is a do it yourself project. The man has no idea about grace.
Salvation is a free gift. We cannot earn it. We act morally because we love God and our neighbor not because we selfishly pursue getting to heaven. Our Christianity is not steeped in self-interest. No, it is about taking care of everyone we meet.
It is interesting that Jesus asks the rich man about how he treats others. He does not ask about the first part of the decalogue (about how we respect God). He asks about how the rich man has treated other human beings.
We are reminded of the judgement scene later in the Gospel of Matthew when Jesus comes back and separates the sheep and goats. The ones who are saved are those who engage in the corporal works of mercy.
I have heard it said on more than one occasion that the purpose of Catholic education is to make sure that each person knows how to keep the rules and make it to heaven. The Catholic Christian is one who is as concerned about his neighbor’s soul as he or she is about the condition of their own soul.
Reflection Questions:
- The last commandment Jesus asks the Rich Man about is whether he has honored his father and mother. How have I done with that in my life? Do I need to make amends for something?
- The rich man seems to be more concerned about personal morality rather than charity. What sins do I try to correct? Am I more concerned about lying, stealing, lust, etc. or am I concerned about the physical needs of others?
Dear Parishioners,
Our schools, both Catholic and public open this week. Every educational institution is vulnerable because of COVID 19. Our Catholic schools are, especially in jeopardy. Many Catholic schools around the country have chosen to close rather than to face the uncertainty of this school year.
If we want our Catholic schools to remain open, we need to continue to support them. For some people Catholic schools are a nice option. If they become inconvenient than those parents quickly look elsewhere. This is a time when those who are dedicated to a Catholic School education will have to make the sacrifices necessary to help us make it through a difficult moment.
Let’s pray that our Catholic Schools and all schools, for that matter, will have the resources they need to make it through the upcoming year and that everyone involved will remain healthy. The future depends on what we do now.
May Our Lady and all the Angels and Saints watch over you today.
Fr. Mark