Reflection: Matthew 19:27-29

 

The Solemnity of the Passing of Our Holy Father, Saint Benedict - Matthew 19:27-29

The Solemnity of the “Passing of our Holy Father, Benedict” is celebrated today.  Typically, this feast is celebrated on March 21.  However, since St. Benedict’s feast was in Holy Week this year, the Church delayed his feast day until after Easter was celebrated.

The Gospel for this feast begins with Peter bluntly saying to Jesus: “Master, we have left everything to follow you.  What will we receive in return?”  Jesus answers Peter: “In the future, when the Son of Man sits on his glorious throne, I promise that you will sit on twelve thrones and judge the twelve tribes of Israel.  Anyone who has given up house, home, brothers, sisters, mother, father, children, or land for me, will receive a hundred times as much.  They also will have eternal life.  However, many who now are first will be last, and many who are last will be first.”

Jesus turns what typically is normal in our world upside down. In today’s world, most of us want more.  Few of us are willing to give up what we have, be that home, family, comfort, or pleasures.  It seems strange to consider that we would receive a hundred times more if we gave up anything.   Jesus is telling us, though, that if we are willing to let go of many things, pleasures, and status and make Jesus the center of our lives, we will be truly happy and peaceful. 

Today is a good day to ask ourselves: What or who truly is the center of my life?  I invite you to ponder this question.  I pray that we will answer: “Jesus is the center of my life!”