Deuteronomy 4:32-40 / Matthew 16:24-28
Whenever we hear the readings at Mass, we surely would wish that we would retain something in our hearts so that we can have some direction in life.
So is there anything inspiring or exciting in today's readings that we can remember and guide us in our lives?
Well, in the 1st reading, Moses exhorted his people to keep God's laws and commandments so that they may prosper and live long in the land that God has promised them.
So it may mean that as long as we keep God's laws and commandments, then we will always have enough, or more than enough money in the bank, we will not suffer from any grave illness and have a peaceful and enjoyable long life.
But in the gospel, Jesus tells us that if we want to be His disciples, then we will have to renounce ourselves and take up our cross and follow Him..
So is there a contradiction in the two readings that we have heard?
The crucial question is posed by Jesus: What will a man gain if he wins the whole world and ruins his soul? Or what has a man to offer in exchange for his soul?
Well, the truth that Jesus is teaching us is indeed the paradox of life.
For it is in letting go that we gain. In other words, let go and let God.
Yes, let God be the first and above all things and let go of ourselves and we will know what peace and joy and happiness is.
Truly, that will be the blessing and the treasure that we are longing for.