Jesus, looking at him, loved him.

God is omniscient. He sees everything.  Nothing is veiled to him, not even our hidden sins.  This truth might make us apprehensive.  But in reality, we should rejoice!  Because, not only is God all -knowing, but he is also all-loving! More than seeing our sins, he is on the lookout for every sign of virtue in us.

As the right young man rattles off all of his virtuous habits, Jesus looks at him with great love.  He approves and even applauds all that this man has accomplished in his spiritual live.  But then his penetrating gaze fixes on the one thing that is holding this man back; his attachment to his possessions.  Only by giving them away can he find true freedom.

For his part, the young man recognizes the truth of Jesus’ analysis but seems unwilling to act on it.  So he turns away sad.  We never learn what happens next, but we do know that Jesus’ words found a home in him.  Who knows?  Maybe he eventually returned to become a disciple!

As you spend time with Jesus in prayer today, let him look on you with love.  Let him recount all the good he sees in you.  He knows how hard you try.  He knows how faithful you are to your family and friends, to your job and to your parish.  He hears and remembers every prayer you have ever lifted up to him.  He feels everything that hurts in your body and your spirit.  Now let him show you how precious you are to him.

Then take a further step.  Let Jesus put his finger on one thing you may treasure more than him – one thing that may be holding you back. Perhaps money has become too important to you.  Perhaps you are caught in a persistent habit of sin, or you are nursing a grudge that you are having a hard time giving up.  Join Jesus in looking these stumbling blocks in the face.  Let go of them.  Let Jesus, who loves you, encourage you and show you the way of healing and hope he is providing for you

-word among us