Sergott’s Sidelines 7/31/22
While living on earth and enjoying life that God has given us, the scriptures remind us that we need to focus on our final destination, heaven. Hence, we need to live a life that reflects our faithfulness to God. So, this gospel is a call to live a Christ-centered-life. We live in a transitory world and therefore, we need to make use of things of this world prudently without losing our ultimate goal, which is eternal life with God.
When we get so attached to material things of this world, we have the tendency to forget about spiritual things, like the spiritual journey we should be traveling (a relationship with Christ). Furthermore, Jesus tells us that life is not secured by what we own. The pursuit of wealth and the pleasures of this world have so blinded many people that they forget about life is all about. Even Thomas Aquinas said, “Temporal goods are subject to man, that he may use them according to his needs, not that he should make them his main purpose or be overly anxious about them.” The more we place our hopes on things of this world, the more we lost the sight of heaven.
The scriptures says that the love of money is the root of all evil since money focuses our attention on something that does not last forever. The rich man only focused only on what he owned, and instead of sharing it with those in need. He was greedy and self-centered. The scriptures reminds us of what is of true value, “for life is more than food and the body is more than clothing…can any of you add a moment to your life-span by worrying? Instead, seek his kingdom first, and these other things will be given to you besides.” (Luke 12:23+)
It is easy for us Christians to be seduced by the things of this world and the challenge is to keep our eyes on Jesus and allow ourselves to be changed/formed by what he told us. Having possessions do not guarantee eternal life! Following Jesus faithfully (through obedience and humility) is the only path that leads to eternal happiness. So, until next time, see you in church! Fr. Larry