March 4, 2019 Monday of the 8th Week of Ordinary Time-C

Sirach 17:20-24

Psalm 32

Mark 10:17-27

To the penitent God provides a way back… Sir. 17:20

“Good teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?” Mk. 10:17

Lord, this rich young man was a good person.  He was obedient to the commandments and tried to do what God wanted.  But deep within his heart he knew he was missing the boat on receiving the gift of salvation.  There was something blocking his freedom to enjoy the life you came to give.  He had an abundance of earthly treasure but not the poverty of spirit that allows your grace to penetrate and transform him.  Your answer, to give away his wealth and to follow you, struck a chord deep within him.  You touched him in a way that could have blessed him with your greatest gift of abundant grace.  Lord, what am I clinging to that is blocking your grace from entering my heart and freeing me to begin living eternal life now.  Am I holding on to pride, control, self-centeredness, evil thoughts, or stubbornness?  Am I as patient with my family as I can be?  Do I judge others or fail to forgive hurts?  As I begin the penitential season of Lent please show me the way back to you so I can inherit the life you want for me.  Amen.