Readings for Oct. 12-13, Twenty-Eighth Sunday in Ordinary Time
By Lyn Zahorik | For On Mission
As you hear today’s Gospel, it might make some sense for it to begin with: “Only those among you who are rich need listen to today’s Gospel.”
We will hear Jesus, almost a bit of a stand-up comic for the crowd of his day, as he presents his listeners with the image of the camel trying to squeeze through the tiny opening in the city wall (the actual eye of the needle) and telling them that is what a rich person looks like trying to get into heaven.
However, Jesus never specifically says “financially rich,” and we know the message is meant for all people in all times. So, what could Jesus’ message mean for us?
Let us think about what it means to be rich.
If you look past whatever financial riches you have, what are the other things in your life that make you rich? Do you have a particular talent or are you able to look at things from a unique perspective? Do you have the richness of being accepted by your family and community, having a healthy body and mind, or knowing you are loved? These are riches in life.
(Might I suggest that you pause reading right now and take time to write down the riches in your life.)
Welcome back! Now that you recognize all that you have in life, the second step must be to give it away. For instance, an example would be a person of prayer who has an understanding of our faith decides to give away three hours each week to serve as a catechist.
Someone confined to their home or a healthcare facility could give away time to pray for the needs of people, rather than using it to watch television or socialize with friends.
Looking through one’s closet, another person sees the abundance of garments they have and selects nice pieces to take to their local homeless shelter. An artist might give away pieces of their work to a fundraiser. Or someone who is healthy and athletic may give their time to lead exercise classes for the elderly.
Realizing the “richness” of owning a car — and having the physical and mental ability to drive where they want and when they want — could lead a person to give away rides to their neighbor for a doctor appointment or for a quiet ride in the beautiful countryside.
There is nothing in our personal “riches” too insignificant that we cannot give it away for the sake of the kingdom of God.
The following quotation expresses this thought well.
There is not an actual known author, so let us imagine that it is Jesus who says to us today, “Life is not a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming, ‘Wow — what a ride!’”
Zahorik is director for spiritual engagement at St. Mary Parish, Omro, and St. Mary Parish, Winneconne.
The readings for Sunday, Oct. 13, can be found at Twenty-Eighth Sunday in Ordinary Time | USCCB.