Today is August 18, Monday of the Twentieth Week in Ordinary Time
We read at today’s Mass, “Jesus said to him, ‘If you wish to be perfect, go, sell what you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me'” (Mt 19:21).
The rich young man in today’s Gospel has an admirable starting point: he keeps the commandments. Yet his question to Jesus — What do I still lack? — reveals a thirst for something more. Deep down, he knows eternal life isn’t found in rule keeping alone. There is a deeper wellspring, a communion with God that requires total surrender.
Christian life begins with God’s law, but it doesn’t end there. Jesus invites us beyond a checklist mentality to an abundant, overflowing relationship with Him.
Relying on Christ
I think of a small garden I tended with another friar in my first parish. With broken spigots, we relied on rain barrels to collect water from the roof. It was enough to keep the plants alive, but not enough to yield abundance. They survived, but they didn’t flourish.
Many of us live our spiritual lives this way. We “collect” just enough grace to get by (occasional prayer, minimal charity, a dutiful Mass attendance) keeping the soul alive, but not letting it bear abundant fruit.
Jesus’ invitation today is to move from survival to abundance. That happens when we stop relying on our own small store of spiritual water and instead draw directly from the limitless spring that is Christ. Following him fully — letting go of attachments, giving generously and trusting him entirely — turns mere survival into vibrant life.
Ask yourself: Am I living on rain barrels, or am I drinking from the well that never runs dry?
Let us pray,
O God, who have prepared for those who love you good things which no eye can see, fill our hearts, we pray, with the warmth of your love, so that, loving you in all things and above all things, we may attain your promises, which surpass every human desire. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God, for ever and ever. Amen.
