Still Lacking...

Yesterday's blog talks about a young, sincere man, wishing to change his life and follow Jesus, having "eternal life" as his prize. Yes, I'm still on it..., this little passage says so much to me and it's one that many can relate to in this modern world. Yet, it begins with "At that time," The gospel reading is from Matthew 19:16-26. The young man having the privilege of not only seeing the Master, is found to be "kneeling" in front of Him, and is allowed to address Him, calling Him "Good Teacher."

We know that the only one that can be called "Good" is the only One that is "Good," the only sinless One, Christ our Lord. After establishing who the young man is talking to, the young man asks how he can gain heaven. Simply put, he is to observe the commandments and "follow Me" that is, Christ Jesus.

There is a point in this scripture where we hear something familiar..., it reminds me of the story of the Publican and the Pharisee. This gospel lesson deals with a man who is always pleased with himself, and thinking he meets all the religious requirements, the Pharisee, unlike the Publican, is anything but humble, and is standing proud and arrogant in the presence of Christ. Matthew presents the young man on his knees, in the reading of Matthew 19:16-26, like the example of the "humbled" Publican. The mind and heart have yet to receive the perceived message of humility, as he says to Christ, "All I have observed; what do I still lack?" It was then, that Jesus answered to him, "If you would be perfect, go, sell what you possess and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me." None of us are "perfect." We are all sinners trusting in God's mercy.

If you can take your eyes off of yourself, you will see Christ. "we" get in the way of knowing Christ and following Him, Is it about Him or "us?"

It would be better to have nothing, and possess the love of Christ. People often talk about wanting to be "filled" with His love. How can anything be filled unless it is empty first?

One of my favorite readings about the woman, who's role was the myrrh bearer, was on her "knees", knowing her disposition, was humble, lamenting. She, full of sin, desired to be healed. She had a fountain of tears to cry. Enough tears to wash the feet of our Lord and Saviour, who allowed her to kiss His feet and dry them with her tresses. He heard the groaning of her heart. The Saviour of her soul knew the multitude of her transgressions, and to her, He granted peace and great mercy.

When you lose yourself, like the myrrh bearing woman, you will find Christ. Then, you will hear Him (your only Saviour) say, "Come follow me," and I will give you life and life eternally.

What is the disposition of your reality? Can you truly be happy if you are still lacking?