20th Week in Ordinary Time (B) : Tuesday 17th August 2021

Jesus does not say that a rich person cannot get into heaven; he affirms that it is difficult. Although many people may consider riches as a sign of God’s favour and blessing, Jesus, with a more clear-eyed world view, looks at the hindrance that riches can pose to a life of faith. Here Jesus only speaks of riches.

In his Spiritual Exercises, St Ignatius suggests we should look at reality even more critically and affirm the danger in pride, riches, and power: Jesus himself was manifestly not troubled by these three desires.

Therefore, if we desire to follow Jesus more closely and be his faithful disciple, we must not allow ourselves to be influenced by the three desires. They aim for a high position in the world or a great reputation leading to pride and riches and seeking power in some area of life.

Lord God, keep our hearts free from worldly desires and our whole lives directed towards Your heavenly Kingdom.