LIFE EVERLASTING OCTOBER 13, 2024 | 28TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME, YEAR B WISDOM 7:7-11; PSALM 89; HEBREWS 4:12-13; MARK 10:17-30
The life everlasting is the concern of the entire Bible. It is an article of faith that we profess every Sunday and on all Solemnities. Henceforth, today’s Sunday focuses on eternal life, which is the concern of the human person represented in today’s gospel by the man who runs up to Jesus to ask: “what must I do to inherit eternal life” (Mark 10:17).
Eternal life is therefore not only important but a necessity.
How to attain it?
Wisdom as the highest gift The first reading is presenting wisdom as the highest attribute which helps us to discern the truth as opposed to falsehood; the good as opposed to evil; wisdom helps to rediscover the true meaning and the true source of life and happiness. Since the Old Testament (Proverbs 8), Lady Wisdom has always called people to follow his ways and find life. To receive eternal life, the Book of wisdom invites us to accept Jesus, the incarnate wisdom of God who gives true wisdom and life everlasting.
Abide with the word of God
The second reading tells us that “The word of God is living and active, sharperthan any two-edged sword”. (Heb. 4:12).
It is a living word that touches and transforms our lives. The Spirit gives life; the flesh counts for nothing. The words I have spoken to you—they are full of the Spirit and life (John 6:63). Jesus in person, the living Word of God, speaks to our hearts through the Scriptures. St. John acknowledges that Jesus the Incarnate Son of God has the word of eternal life. (Cf. John 6: 68). We must abide with the word of God in order to have eternal life.
Loving relationship with God and sharing what we have with others
Contrary to the attitude of the rich man who thinks that eternal life could be gained through his own efforts (Mere observance of the commandments), Jesus invites his followers to a loving relationship. We need to move from the mere observance of the law to a gift of self; moving from “doing” or “not doing” something to “being” with God. Like to the rich man in the gospel, to us too, Jesus says:
“Sell what you have and give to the poor… and come, follow me” (Mark 10:21).
Heaven is for those who train their heart to detach themselves from unnecessary things. In order to go to heaven, Jesus wants us to take off whatever weighs down our hearts in order to make room for him as he gives himself to us in the daily Mass. We are invited to practice charity for on the last Judgement, we will be judged on love (Mt. 25:31-46). That is true wisdom which teaches us to prioritize spiritual wealth over material wealth and sharing over selfishness and greed.
Prayer: Lord, grant us wisdom to seek your will above all else. Help us to embrace your word and detach from worldly possessions. Guide us in our journey of faith, so we may follow you faithfully and reach eternal life. Amen.
Fr. Georges Roger BIDZOGO SAC
Living the gospel this week: “Indeed the word of God is living and effective”
The second reading for the 28th Sunday the letter to the Hebrews tells us that God’s word is alive and powerful. This reminds us of the power of God’s word in our lives.
1. God’s word is not just written text: - It is active and speaks to us personally. - It reveals our innermost thoughts and guides us in the right path. In your schedule, make the word of God a priority. Read and reflect on the Scriptures, allowing them to shape your hearts and minds.
2. God’s word is a guide for our lives. It helps us discern right from wrong and keeps us on the path of righteousness. Let us commit to regular reading of the Bible, so we can grow in our understanding and love for God’s word.
"For you were continually straying like sheep, but now you have returned to the Shepherd and Guardian of your souls." (Psalm: 119: 105)
Fr. Georges Roger BIDZOGO SAC