May 23: Choose First the Kingdom of God

Alexander Master: Jesus and the Rich Young Man
Koninklijke Bibliotheek, The Hague, c.1430

Monday of the Eighth Week in Ordinary Time

Gospel: Mk 10:17-27

Jesus, looking at him, loved him and said, “You lack one thing; go, sell what you own, and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; then come, follow me.” When he heard this, he was shocked and went away grieving, for he had many possessions (NRSV, Mk 10:21-22).

Father, from the preaching of Jesus we realize that your coming kingdom must be the center and focus of everything that we are and do. Not family, not the poor, certainly not material possessions, no matter how well we use them, may come between you and us.

May we ever be responsive to the grace that you always offer us through the Word and never allow any created good to come between you and us. May we always choose you, Father, and your kingdom first and then order all other goods under that first and foremost choice.

Through Christ our Lord. Amen.