LET GO

August 18, 2025 Monday within the 20th week in Ordinary Time Year C Matthew 19:16–22 When I read the story of the rich young man, I see myself in him. He is eager, respectful, and searching. He approaches Jesus with a burning question: “What good must I do to gain eternal life?” Deep down, I know I also ask the same thing—not always with words, but with the restlessness of my heart. I try to do good, I keep the faith, I follow what the Church teaches, yet sometimes I still feel that something is missing. Jesus’ reply pierces me: “If you wish to be perfect, go, sell what you have, and give to the poor… then come, follow me.” In other words: let go. I may not be rich in money like the young man, but I realize I have my own “possessions” that keep me bound. It could be my pride, my fear of the future, my desire to control, or even relationships and comforts that I hold too tightly. These things give me security, yet they also keep me from fully trusting God. The young man went away sad because his wealth was too heavy to release. I wonder—how many times have I walked away sad because I was unwilling to surrender what God was asking of me? How many moments have I chosen safety over discipleship, comfort over trust, my way over His? This Gospel is not about condemning riches but about confronting attachments. Jesus doesn’t want me half-free, half-his; He wants my whole heart. And I realize that peace will never come from clinging to things, but only from letting go into His hands. Eternal life is not something I earn with my goodness; it is a gift I receive when I follow Him with freedom. My prayer today is simple: Lord, show me what I need to release so I can follow You more fully. Take away my sadness, and replace it with the joy of walking in Your way. Blessings Fr. Jhack