Despite what some people think, being a Christian is not a guarantee of a smooth and easy life. We face difficulties and struggles just as the Lord did. What we do have, however, is an inner assurance and joy that our lives have meaning and purpose. We are being formed for eternity; no earthly experience is wasted if we learn the lessons of love and service.

The story of the rich young man is not a condemnation of wealthy people. The man is a good and decent person, but one who depended on his wealth for security. It gave him power and prestige, and he could make things happen. It also gave him his identity and role in society. Jesus invites him to experience radical dependence on God and to let God make things happen. And God should give him his sense of identity, not society of culture. Wealth is not the only culprit, for we all have things we cling to. Perhaps we turn to our opinions, our work, reputation, public recognition, and talents instead of God. The Gospel invites us to freedom. God can be trusted, and God will care for us. St. Francis once said that 'we are who we are before God and nothing more'. As long as we are in control, then we have not given all to God. Let us seek ways each day to let go of control and abandon ourselves to God.