Are We Afraid to Commit?
As many of you know, we all have fears, and they may not be the same. We may fear flying, spiders, doctors or dogs—to name a few. For a long time, I was afraid of heights.
When polled regarding their fears, people count fear of death and speaking in public at the top of the list. Another fear that is at the top of the list is commitment.
We tend to joke about this last one, but for some of us, it is a real problem. We may have a difficult time taking out a mortgage, worrying about owing money to someone else for many years. We may be afraid to pursue a college education because we worry that we may not complete it. In regards to relationships, many of us simply get “cold feet” and push others away when they get too close.
What about our commitment to God? This seems to be what Jesus is trying to get his listeners to consider in the
conversation He has with the rich man in today’s Gospel. You know the story well: A man runs up to Jesus, kneels, and asks him what her must do to inherit
eternal life. This man clearly is “a good man”. He knows the commandments he has been taught. Jesus doesn’t dispute this at all but then Jesus challenges the man. Jesus looks at him lovingly and tells him that he is lacking one thing. “Go sell what you have, give to the poor and you will have treasure in heaven.”
There Jesus goes again. Just when I am getting comfortable, He shakes things up and makes me wonder whether I can ever call myself a true disciple. We sometimes forget that Jesus’ message is not an easy one. We try to “water the message down” but nothing about Jesus is “watered down”. His life was overflowing in everything we believe God is and everything God calls us to be.
Are we afraid to be fully connected to Jesus? Are we afraid this commitment simply costs us too much? The irony is that we think following God’s will is too restricting that it will take away our freedom. Yet, in faith we are taught the opposite is true. God’s way is always the best way. God’s way will always bring us to a fullness of life in ways we cannot imagine.
May our commitment to God be something we never fear, but rather, embrace each day.
Blessings,
Deacon Mark
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