First Reading - Wisdom 7:7-11
Second Reading - Hebrews 4:12-13
Gospel - Mark 10:17-30
In the first reading from the Book of Wisdom, we are reminded of the value of wisdom, a treasure far greater than riches, power, or even health. Solomon, speaking through this text, tells us how he prayed and was granted wisdom. He considers it more valuable than gold and silver, more precious than any earthly possession. What strikes us here is his clarity of vision—he realizes that wisdom is the key to understanding life and living it well. Wisdom brings the ability to see the world as it truly is, not just from a material perspective, but with an understanding of God's plan.
The second reading from Hebrews highlights the piercing nature of God's word. The author describes it as living and active, sharper than a double-edged sword. It penetrates, dividing soul and spirit, judging the thoughts and intentions of the heart. This imagery reminds us of the power of God's word to reveal our true selves. Nothing is hidden from Him; everything is laid bare. This passage challenges us to live authentically, knowing that God knows us better than we know ourselves. His word not only comforts but also convicts, calling us to examine our lives and seek the wisdom that leads us to Him.
In the Gospel from Mark, we meet a man who has followed the commandments but still feels something is lacking in his life. He approaches Jesus, asking, "What must I do to inherit eternal life?" Jesus responds by challenging him to go beyond the basics of the law. He invites the man to let go of his wealth and follow Him. This is a radical call, one that goes beyond simply living a moral life. Jesus asks the man to surrender his attachment to material possessions and place his trust in God alone. But the man cannot do it. His possessions have too strong a hold on him, and he walks away saddened.
What connects all these readings is the theme of wisdom, particularly the wisdom to discern what is truly important in life. The rich man in the Gospel had everything by worldly standards, yet he lacked the wisdom to see that eternal life with Christ was worth more than all his possessions. His wealth had become his security, his identity, and he couldn’t let go of it, even for the sake of the Kingdom of God.
Today, we are invited to reflect on what holds us back from fully following Christ. What are the things in our lives that we cling to, mistakenly believing they can bring us happiness or security? It may not be wealth for all of us, but it could be other things—our career, reputation, relationships, or comfort. True wisdom, like Solomon’s, helps us see that nothing is worth more than living in relationship with God. When we embrace this wisdom, the Word of God, sharper than any sword, cuts through our attachments and reveals to us the path to true joy.
Jesus assures us that those who leave everything to follow Him will receive far more in return, even in this life—though it will come with challenges—and in the life to come, eternal life. This promise is for us today. The question is: Do we have the courage and the wisdom to trust Him completely, to let go of what binds us, and to follow Him wherever He leads?
As we continue with the Eucharist, may we pray for the grace to be wise, to let go of what is fleeting, and to embrace what is eternal—life with Christ.
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