Arrogance that leads to adverse downfall





Tuesday of week 20 in Ordinary Time 


Ezekiel 28:1-10 

Deut. 32:26-28,30,35-36

Matthew 19:23-30




The gospel passage picks up where yesterday’s reading left off, recounting the encounter between the rich young man and Jesus. He is unable to let go of lesser goods for a greater one, and as a result, he walks away sad.


Often, we fear most what we need the most. Happiness, peace, and healing—indeed, eternal life—may be right in front of us, but instead of embracing them, we tend to pull back in fear. That is why it is easy to see ourselves in the rich young man from yesterday’s and Peter in today’s gospel, asking Jesus a question that echoes within all of us:  “Teacher, what good must I do to gain eternal life?”” lord, who can be saved? What about us?



In the rich young man, we recognize our own struggles. Jesus stands before us, offering eternal life, yet instead of joyfully accepting it, we retreat in fear because we haven’t yet found our security—our identity and purpose—in following Christ. Until we do, we’ll keep walking away, feeling saddened. Today’s first reading reminds us that arrogance can bring downfall. An unrepentant heart can lead us into sadness and even doom. Let us commit today to walk closely with Jesus, trusting that His grace will support us along the way. Amen.



Have a blessed day. 

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