Has Jesus ever surprised you? Today, the Gospel describes an encounter; a man kneels before Jesus. This person has done something amazing - kept all the commandments since his youth! Jesus knows his heart and now invites him to something deeper - "sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven" (Mk. 10:21). This surprises the man. He cannot let go of his wealth and walks away, sad.

The first reading today describes the gift of wisdom. Wisdom allows us to recognize what is most valuable in life. The man in the Gospel lacks wisdom, he does not see that the "treasure in heaven" Jesus is offering something much greater than any possession on earth. True love involves sharing what we have with others but, the man does not see this. Jesus does not get angry, but looks at him with love. Jesus' word to the young person is like a sword cutting through the thoughts and attitudes of his heart. His everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of Jesus and the crowd.

Wisdom encourages us to trust in Jesus' love. What if this man honestly told Jesus his fears: 'If I sell everything, Lord, what will my family say?' 'Who will take care of me in my old age?' Would Jesus chide him or would Jesus work with him to overcome his fears?