Continuing from yesterday’s Gospel, Jesus today points out that it is easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven. The strong desire for material possessions often distracts many people from recognizing their spiritual needs. Although the grace of God is at work in each of us, those who are rich in this sense will need to also make extreme effort and sacrifice in order to enter the kingdom of God. Those who have already willingly renounced riches in order to follow Christ need to be careful also. They should not be distracted if, as they journey with Christ, they encounter more riches than they left behind. Their eyes must be fixed on Christ alone who daily calls them to renounce those riches. This is the only way they can avoid being the last.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, we also want to follow you. Help us never to be distracted by the glamour of riches so that we may find our joy and fulfillment in you. Amen.