Reflection on Today's Readings: Salvation

Today's readings (1Peter 1:3-9; Ps 111:1-1, 5-6, 9, 10c; Mark 10:17-27) focus on God's gift of salvation to us.

The first reading describes our inheritance of salvation as being "imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven" for us. It says that this gift is more precious than gold, which can be destroyed by fire. For those that believe without seeing Him, we will rejoice with an indescribable and glorious joy! But this gift does not come without a price - we may have "to suffer through various trials" so that our faith may be proven.

The Responsorial Psalm remainds us that the Lord keeps his part of the bargain - He will "remember His covenant forever".

The Second Reading contains that often cited verse:

"It is easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle
than for one who is rich to enter the Kingdom of God."

This reminds us that what we acquire on earth in the form of possessions and riches are meaningless, as well as a barrier to the Gates of Heaven. We have to give away what we own and follow Jesus in order to enter the Kingdon of God.

The rich man was disheartened when he heard this, and many people thought it would be an impossible task. It is, for man. Jesus agrees, "For men it is impossible, but not for God. All things are possible for God." And all things are possible though God.

Prayer:
"Lord Jesus, As we approach the Season of Lent, keep us mindful of the sacrifice we must make every day to enter Your Kingdom. Give us the strength to rejoice with an indescribable joy as we face the trials and tribulations in our Christian lives. We ask this as we give praise to You and Your Name, Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.