Wow, I read the Gospel and re-read it. This verse is one that we all need to read and understand. What must I do to inherit eternal life? This question rings to all who are Interested in eternal life. When I was younger and much less interested in the gospel, I did run across this verse. At that point in my life I thought it meant I just had to be a good person and treat others as I wanted to be treated. Check, check. I had those items crossed off, so I was going to heaven, all set. But is that really all there is? NOPE. Jesus DIED for us, DIES so we didn’t have to. That gift is the grace given to us. There is no way we can earn salvation, it is a gift. But our life should reflect what we believe. There is much to that statement – we are to be the Hands, eyes and feet of Jesus on this earth. When people see us, do they see Jesus? Truly living this way is even more complicated than it sounds, but with the help of the Holy Spirit, it is very attainable. I will do what I need to do in order to reflect his love, will you join me? My heart has to show love. I attended a Men’s Catholic Leadership Conference in Dallas, TX a couple weeks ago and one of the questions they asked us was “Are you a follower or a fan?” Which means do we come to church to check the box, buy cd’s, books, and bumper stickers or do we come to do get reinvigorated so we can do his will? I was, and at times still am, a fan. I know changing will be work, but with the help of the Holy Spirit, I am up to the challenge. My goal is to fully do his will. Another topic at the conference dealt with how we talk. Do we use the Lord’s name in vain? Those stickers on cars ring so true, God’s last name is not D@#$ It. Or saying Jesus Christ outside of reverent prayer. It is taught by our Catholic faith and scripture that if we commit one of these without confession we will not inherit eternal life. We really need to refrain from vulgar language, not only as it is a sin, but also as it may lead others into sinning. I often say to myself, how would I talk if Jesus was walking with me? And by the way, He is walking with each of us every minute of every day. Another statement that was made was “Can the people see the shape of your heart?” Hmmm. Do they see the love of Jesus in our life? Do the fruits of our lives show that? Jesus did give us commandments to follow, but not to punish us, to help keep us on the path to God. To ensure his will is done, not our own. There is a verse that I try follow – Galatians 2: 19-20 – ”For through the law I died to the law, that I might live for God. I have been crucified with Christ; yet I live, no longer I, but Christ lives in me; insofar as I now live in the flesh, I live by faith in the Son of God who has loved me and given himself up for me.” So my life is his, my will is his, just like what today’s gospels says; rather than pass by the one in need take up your cross and do his will. At the end of the Gospel we are taught that the neighbor to the one in need is the one that treated him with mercy. Jesus then instructs us to go and do likewise. This is our call as well, to inherit everlasting life. GO AND DO LIKEWISE. AMEN.

Let this be the day that we all give our lives to Jesus and do his will.

“Always be ready to give an explanation to anyone who asks you for a reason for your hope.” 1 Peter 3:15

God Bless, Don Barry