We must put God before everything else.

Sorry for the delay. I have had problems sending email from Lake Charles.

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

After reading yesterday’s gospel reading and then reflecting on today’s (Matthew 19:23-30), one would again think that being a “rich man” would be a sin. Jesus tells his disciples: “Truly, I say to you, it will be hard for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven. Again I tell you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God.” Like in yesterday’s gospel, the reference to being a “rich man” again refers to our alliances. Who do we love more, money or God? Jesus is telling us that if we put our hearts into worldly investments, we will not share in the Kingdom of God. We must be willing to invest our time and our talents in the church. Jesus is not opposed to the wealthy; in fact he has friends who are wealthy. Jesus says, “it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle.” The eye of the needle was the small door that allowed late night travelers to enter into the city without having to leave the large gates open. A man would have to bow down to enter through this door, but a camel would have to get on his knees and crawl through the door. This was a very difficult task for a camel, but not impossible. Jesus reassures disciples that “With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” Only putting our faith in God will allow us to make it into heaven. We will not be riding high on the camel, but on our knees crawling in forgiveness and penance. Jesus promises that “those of you who have followed me will also sit on twelve thrones.”

God calls us to put him first. We must put him before everything else. Not just before money and wealth, but before life itself. We must accept what God calls us to do. It may mean giving up significant things including wealth. Jesus told the disciples, “And every one who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or lands, for my name's sake, will receive a hundredfold, and inherit eternal life.” We will be rewarded for the sacrifices we make in the name of Jesus. Jesus is telling us that no sacrifice will go un rewarded. What ever we place on the altar of God will become a new treasure for us in heaven.

A Simple Prayer Most heavenly Father God, My time and my talents are yours, Use them as you will. You have given me so much, May I always love you first, And do your will.

Yours in Christ Michael Marcon