August 19, 2019 Monday of the 20th Week in Ordinary Time-C

Judges 2:11-19

Psalm 106

Matthew 19:16-22

They…abandoned themselves to the worship of other gods.  Judges 2:17

“What do I still lack?”  Mt. 19:20

Lord, the rich young man came to you with the same question I have.  He was doing his best to follow the commandments of God.  But in his heart he knew there was more he needed to do to enter into eternal life.  Something was missing in his life and that disturbed him.  He may have sensed that there was an obstacle to giving himself completely to God.  You saw into his heart and identified for him the next step for him to grow in faith and trust.   He had to let go of the false gods of possessions and wealth.  Just as the chosen people of Israel substituted false gods for the one who was caring for them, the young man placed too high a priority on goods of this world.  Lord, “what do I still lack?”  What do you see in my heart that prevents me from giving myself completely to you?  Am I misusing the time and talents you’ve given me?  Am I too self-absorbed to enter into open and fruitful relationships with others?  Do I have pleasure and comfort as my highest priorities?  Help me to let go of what owns me so I can follow you.  Amen.