I feel for the young man who, sincerely looking to Jesus as he seeks eternal life, points out that he’s followed the rules. Although he’s done everything he’s been told he needs to do, he has an inkling that there’s still something more required of him. Yet Jesus’ answer – to give more of himself than the minimum, to let go of the comforts and possessions he cling to, to follow him with abandon – is too much. Jesus is demanding his entire heart, and to his credit, the man recognizes that even as he walks away. What does this call look like in our lives? What is Jesus calling us to shed, not because he wants to make our lives more difficult, but because it is preventing us from giving ourselves totally to him?
- Reflection by Elizabeth Hansen in “Celebrating Sunday for Catholic Families 2024-25” published by Liturgy Training Publications.