As we go through life, we all have wins and losses, and we all have gains and setbacks. Some are big,
some are small, but we all experience them. What can make a difference in the big picture is which
aspects of life we are winning, and which we are losing. Today’s Gospel addresses this topic.
Money vs. Life
A childhood friend of mine is a modern-day Horatio Alger. He grew up in the middle class, but always
desired more. He wanted to grow up to be rich, and from a very young age he was driven to work hard,
study hard, and make money. He dedicated decades toward gaining wealth and did very well. His
children and future grandchildren will be financially taken care of in perpetuity. However, the lifestyle
caused him major health concerns. So serious are the health concerns that he will retire shortly to focus
on physical recovery. As mentioned in the Gospel today:
“What profit would there be for one to gain the whole world but forfeit his life? Or what can one give in
exchange for his life?”
He sacrificed his physical health for wealth, but now it is difficult to use that wealth to buy physical
health. But what about spiritual wealth?
Grateful For Spiritual Wealth
We all need to have money to fund our families, our favorite charities, our church, and our communities.
There certainly should be a balance, so that we also gain treasure that moths cannot eat, thieves cannot
steal, and will be safe in Heaven. “You can’t take it with you” as the saying goes.
A word that has come up in two recent homilies has been the word “Grateful.”
Whether we acknowledge them or not, countless gifts of spiritual wealth come our way each day. They
may be in the form of people, activities, or outcomes. An undying love by our Father is there for us, which
is a form of wealth. Eternal life in a place unfathomably good is the ultimate form of spiritual wealth.
As you move through these final days of Summer, perhaps spend a moment alone in prayer, and let Jesus
know that you appreciate all that He does for you and your families, both small and large things. Be
grateful and thankful for the gifts that come about in your daily life, which ultimately come from Him. Ask
to have a relationship with Him. Ask for spiritual gifts and spiritual gain but know that you will also have
losses along the way.
Thank you Paul.