Seeking perfection...

"Teacher, what good must I do to gain eternal life?"

The young man in Matthew's gospel (Mt 19:16-22) approached Jesus with this question. Oftentimes, we have questions, but aren't really prepared for the answers: aren't really prepared for the soul searching and honesty required for the desired outcomes. We want to commit, but not at the cost of self-sacrifice, of being all-in. If we wish to enter deeper into relationship, into life with Christ... we need to "keep the commandments". And once again, the young man's response resonates with me... "Which ones?" What's the easiest route, the minimum requirement, the path that allows me to still have my comforts, my wants, my way...

Do I get a gold star for the good I am doing, the commandments I have observed?

"What do I still lack?"

I can do and observe, and be capable of many things... but if I do not have love, I am nothing, I gain nothing. I may have many possessions, but lack true treasure... And our treasure is this: To love God with all our heart, and to know His great love for us. For where our treasure is, there will our hearts be... A heart divided- serving things or people above God cannot be perfect, will struggle to truly love self and others, and will always be lacking.