A Journey Beyond Earthly Attachments

The readings for today’s Mass weave together a powerful message that challenges us to reflect on our priorities, our attachments, and our call to radical discipleship. The unifying theme across the passages is the pursuit of divine wisdom, the transformative power of God’s Word, and the invitation to follow Jesus with an undivided heart. The contrast between worldly wealth and eternal treasure is starkly drawn, reminding us that our ultimate fulfillment lies not in material possessions but in a life surrendered to God.

In the Book of Wisdom, we encounter Solomon’s deep reverence for wisdom, which he holds above all earthly treasures. This passage reminds us that wisdom is a gift from God, more precious than any riches we might accumulate. The Psalm echoes this prayer for wisdom, urging us to number our days and seek God’s favor, while the Letter to the Hebrews reveals the penetrating power of God’s Word to transform our hearts. Finally, the Gospel of Mark presents one of the most challenging calls to discipleship in the New Testament, where Jesus tells the rich young man to sell everything and follow Him. Through these readings, we are reminded that true discipleship requires radical trust and complete surrender to God’s will.

Let’s dive deeper into each reading, exploring how they speak to us today about the importance of wisdom, the power of God’s Word, and the cost of following Christ.

First Reading – Wisdom 7:7-11

The Pursuit of Divine Wisdom: A Treasure Beyond Measure

The Book of Wisdom, also known as the Wisdom of Solomon, was written in the 1st or 2nd century BC, likely in Alexandria, Egypt. It was a time when Greek culture and philosophy heavily influenced Jewish thought. The Jewish community, living in the diaspora, was tempted to assimilate into Greek culture, which prized intellectualism and worldly knowledge. The author of Wisdom reminds them that true wisdom comes from God alone and transcends human understanding or material wealth. King Solomon, known for his wisdom, serves as the model in this book, and the first reading recounts his deep love and respect for wisdom.

Wisdom 7:7-11
New Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition

Solomon’s Respect for Wisdom
⁷ Therefore I prayed, and understanding was given me;
I called on God, and the spirit of wisdom came to me.
⁸ I preferred her to scepters and thrones,
and I accounted wealth as nothing in comparison with her.
⁹ Neither did I liken to her any priceless gem,
because all gold is but a little sand in her sight,
and silver will be accounted as clay before her.
¹⁰ I loved her more than health and beauty,
and I chose to have her rather than light,
because her radiance never ceases.
¹¹ All good things came to me along with her,
and in her hands uncounted wealth.

Detailed Exegesis
Verse 7: “Therefore I prayed, and understanding was given me; I called on God, and the spirit of wisdom came to me.”
The importance of prayer is emphasized here. Wisdom, as understood in Catholic tradition, is not simply intellectual knowledge but a divine gift, one of the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit (CCC 1831). Solomon recognizes that wisdom comes only through a relationship with God, and this verse highlights the importance of humility in seeking God’s guidance in our lives.

Verse 8: “I preferred her to scepters and thrones, and I accounted wealth as nothing in comparison with her.”
Solomon, despite his status as a king, acknowledges that wisdom is of far greater value than political power or wealth. This verse reminds us that material possessions and positions of authority are fleeting, while wisdom leads to eternal life. As Jesus taught in the Sermon on the Mount, we are to “seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness” (Matthew 6:33).

Verse 9: “Neither did I liken to her any priceless gem, because all gold is but a little sand in her sight, and silver will be accounted as clay before her.”
This verse uses vivid imagery to describe the worthlessness of gold and silver in comparison to divine wisdom. St. Augustine, in his writings, emphasizes that true wealth comes not from earthly riches but from the “treasures of the heart” (cf. Luke 12:34). The imagery of sand and clay also points to the temporary nature of material wealth—it can be washed away or reshaped, but wisdom endures.

Verse 10: “I loved her more than health and beauty, and I chose to have her rather than light, because her radiance never ceases.”
Solomon expresses the eternal nature of wisdom here. Unlike physical beauty, health, or even light, which are transient, wisdom has an eternal radiance. St. Thomas Aquinas taught that wisdom helps us to see things from God’s perspective, which in turn illuminates our understanding of the world and our role within it.

Verse 11: “All good things came to me along with her, and in her hands uncounted wealth.”
Once again, Solomon reinforces the idea that wisdom brings with it all the blessings of life. This echoes Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 6:33: “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” When we prioritize our relationship with God and seek His wisdom, the other aspects of life fall into place.

Reflection
The first reading challenges us to reflect on what we truly value in life. Solomon, despite his wealth and power, recognizes that wisdom from God is the most valuable treasure we can possess. In our modern world, where success is often measured by wealth, beauty, or influence, this passage reminds us that our ultimate goal is to seek God’s wisdom, which will lead us to eternal life. How often do I seek God’s wisdom in my decisions, and how can I cultivate a heart that values spiritual wisdom over material wealth?

Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 90:12-17

Living in the Light of Eternity: A Prayer for Wisdom and God’s Favor

Psalm 90 is unique in that it is attributed to Moses, and it reflects on the fragility of human life in contrast to the eternal nature of God. The psalmist prays for God’s mercy and favor, recognizing that life is brief and full of challenges. The Psalm is a heartfelt plea for God’s wisdom and guidance, acknowledging that only through His grace can we make sense of our short time on earth.

Psalm 90:12-17
New Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition

¹² So teach us to count our days
    that we may gain a wise heart.
¹³ Turn, O Lord! How long?
    Have compassion on your servants!
¹⁴ Satisfy us in the morning with your steadfast love,
    so that we may rejoice and be glad all our days.
¹⁵ Make us glad as many days as you have afflicted us,
    and as many years as we have seen evil.
¹⁶ Let your work be manifest to your servants,
    and your glorious power to their children.
¹⁷ Let the favor of the Lord our God be upon us,
    and prosper for us the work of our hands—
    O prosper the work of our hands!

Detailed Exegesis
Verse 12: “So teach us to count our days that we may gain a wise heart.”
This is a prayer for wisdom in the face of life’s brevity. The psalmist acknowledges that human life is fleeting, and we need God’s help to live wisely. Wisdom here is not just about making smart decisions, but about living in a way that aligns with God’s eternal purposes. St. Benedict, in his Rule, reminds us to “keep death daily before your eyes,” urging us to live each day with an eternal perspective.

Verse 13: “Turn, O Lord! How long? Have compassion on your servants!”
This verse expresses a deep yearning for God’s mercy. The psalmist, much like the Israelites wandering in the desert, seeks God’s compassion, recognizing human weakness and the need for divine intervention. It is a cry for the Lord to act and save His people from their struggles.

Verse 14: “Satisfy us in the morning with your steadfast love, so that we may rejoice and be glad all our days.”
True satisfaction comes not from earthly pleasures but from God’s love. The psalmist prays for the Lord to fill his heart each day with the knowledge of divine love. St. Augustine famously said, “Our hearts are restless until they rest in You, O Lord.” This verse echoes that sentiment, reminding us that it is only in God’s steadfast love that we find lasting joy.

Verse 15: “Make us glad as many days as you have afflicted us, and as many years as we have seen evil.”
Here, the psalmist asks for God’s restoration. After years of suffering and affliction, the prayer is for joy and gladness to return. This points to the Christian understanding of redemptive suffering—through Christ, even our trials can bring us closer to God, and He can restore what was lost.

Verse 16: “Let your work be manifest to your servants, and your glorious power to their children.”
This is a plea for God’s presence to be evident in the lives of His people. The psalmist desires that God’s works be visible, not only to the current generation but to future generations as well. In our lives, we are called to bear witness to God’s work, sharing His love with others so that His glory may be revealed to all.

Verse 17: “Let the favor of the Lord our God be upon us, and prosper for us the work of our hands—O prosper the work of our hands!”
The psalm ends with a request for God’s blessing on human efforts. While we work and strive, it is ultimately God’s favor that brings true success. This echoes St. Paul’s words in 1 Corinthians 3:7: “So neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow.”

Reflection
Psalm 90 invites us to live with an awareness of our mortality and to seek God’s wisdom in the limited time we have. It challenges us to focus on God’s steadfast love as the source of our joy, and to rely on His favor for the success of our endeavors. Do I live each day with an eternal perspective, seeking God’s favor in all that I do?

Second Reading – Hebrews 4:12-13

The Power of God’s Living Word: A Sword That Pierces the Heart

The Letter to the Hebrews emphasizes the superiority of Christ’s priesthood and the importance of faith in Him. In this particular passage, the author reflects on the power of God’s Word. The early Christians, many of whom were converts from Judaism, needed reassurance that God’s revelation through Jesus was the fulfillment of the Old Covenant. The Word of God is portrayed not as a static or historical text but as living, dynamic, and powerful—capable of penetrating the depths of the human soul.

Hebrews 4:12-13
New Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition

¹² Indeed, the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing until it divides soul from spirit, joints from marrow; it is able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart. ¹³ And before him no creature is hidden, but all are naked and laid bare to the eyes of the one to whom we must render an account.

Detailed Exegesis
Verse 12: “Indeed, the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing until it divides soul from spirit, joints from marrow; it is able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart.”
God’s Word is described as a living force. It is not a passive text but something that actively works within us, shaping our thoughts, motivations, and actions. The “two-edged sword” imagery suggests the precision with which God’s Word can penetrate even the most hidden parts of our hearts. St. John Chrysostom said that Scripture “is sharper than a sword, it severs evil from the soul, and leads it to the heights of virtue.” This passage invites us to let Scripture cut through our pretenses and guide us toward authentic living.

Verse 13: “And before him no creature is hidden, but all are naked and laid bare to the eyes of the one to whom we must render an account.”
This verse reminds us of our accountability before God. We cannot hide from Him—He sees all and knows the innermost parts of our hearts. It is a sobering reminder that our actions and intentions are fully visible to God, and we must be prepared to stand before Him in judgment. This aligns with the Church’s teaching on the particular judgment (CCC 1021), where each soul will be judged based on its faith and works.

Reflection
The reading from Hebrews calls us to reflect on the power of God’s Word in our lives. Scripture is not merely a historical document but a living tool that can shape and transform us. We are called to open ourselves to the Word of God, allowing it to pierce our hearts and reveal our true intentions. How can I allow God’s Word to challenge and transform me more deeply?

Gospel – Mark 10:17-30

The Radical Call to Discipleship: Letting Go to Follow Christ

The Gospel passage recounts the story of the rich young man who approaches Jesus seeking eternal life. This encounter is one of the most challenging moments in the Gospels, as it highlights the cost of discipleship. The rich man is eager to follow Jesus but is ultimately unwilling to part with his wealth. Jesus’ response to the man’s hesitation is a profound teaching on the difficulty of entering the kingdom of God when one is attached to material wealth.

Mark 10:17-30
New Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition

The Rich Man
¹⁷ As he was setting out on a journey, a man ran up and knelt before him, and asked him, “Good Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?” ¹⁸ Jesus said to him, “Why do you call me good? No one is good but God alone. ¹⁹ You know the commandments: ‘You shall not murder; You shall not commit adultery; You shall not steal; You shall not bear false witness; You shall not defraud; Honor your father and mother.’” ²⁰ He said to him, “Teacher, I have kept all these since my youth.” ²¹ Jesus, looking at him, loved him and said, “You lack one thing; go, sell what you own, and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; then come, follow me.” ²² When he heard this, he was shocked and went away grieving, for he had many possessions.
²³ Then Jesus looked around and said to his disciples, “How hard it will be for those who have wealth to enter the kingdom of God!” ²⁴ And the disciples were perplexed at these words. But Jesus said to them again, “Children, how hard it is to enter the kingdom of God! ²⁵ It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God.” ²⁶ They were greatly astounded and said to one another, “Then who can be saved?” ²⁷ Jesus looked at them and said, “For mortals it is impossible, but not for God; for God all things are possible.”
²⁸ Peter began to say to him, “Look, we have left everything and followed you.” ²⁹ Jesus said, “Truly I tell you, there is no one who has left house or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or fields, for my sake and for the sake of the good news, ³⁰ who will not receive a hundredfold now in this age—houses, brothers and sisters, mothers and children, and fields, with persecutions—and in the age to come eternal life.

Detailed Exegesis
Verse 17: “As he was setting out on a journey, a man ran up and knelt before him, and asked him, ‘Good Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?’”
The rich young man’s question is one we all must ask: What must I do to inherit eternal life? His posture—kneeling before Jesus—demonstrates his sincerity and respect. However, Jesus’ response will challenge the young man to go beyond simply keeping the commandments.

Verse 18-19: “Jesus said to him, ‘Why do you call me good? No one is good but God alone. You know the commandments: You shall not murder; You shall not commit adultery; You shall not steal; You shall not bear false witness; You shall not defraud; Honor your father and mother.’”
Jesus begins by quoting the commandments, indicating that eternal life is tied to living a life in accordance with God’s laws. However, He subtly challenges the young man’s understanding of goodness by pointing to God as the ultimate source of goodness. This echoes CCC 2052, which teaches that the Decalogue is the path to life.

Verse 21: “Jesus, looking at him, loved him and said, ‘You lack one thing; go, sell what you own, and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; then come, follow me.’”
Out of love, Jesus calls the young man to something deeper—radical detachment from his possessions. While the young man had kept the commandments, his attachment to wealth held him back from fully following Jesus. Jesus’ invitation to sell everything and follow Him is not just about material poverty but about spiritual freedom. St. Francis of Assisi embodied this call when he renounced his wealth to live a life of poverty and radical trust in God.

Verse 22: “When he heard this, he was shocked and went away grieving, for he had many possessions.”
The young man’s reaction is heartbreaking—he cannot let go of his possessions, and so he walks away from Jesus. This moment highlights the difficulty of discipleship. We are often eager to follow Jesus, but when it requires us to give up what we hold dear, we hesitate. Jesus’ words challenge us to examine our own attachments and whether they prevent us from fully following Him.

Verse 23-25: “Then Jesus looked around and said to his disciples, ‘How hard it will be for those who have wealth to enter the kingdom of God! […] It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God.’”
Jesus’ statement about the difficulty of the wealthy entering the kingdom of God is shocking to His disciples. In their cultural context, wealth was often seen as a sign of God’s favor, but Jesus flips this assumption on its head. Wealth, while not inherently evil, can become a stumbling block if it causes us to rely on ourselves rather than on God.

Verse 26-27: “They were greatly astounded and said to one another, ‘Then who can be saved?’ Jesus looked at them and said, ‘For mortals it is impossible, but not for God; for God all things are possible.’”
This exchange highlights the disciples’ confusion. If even the wealthy, who seem to have everything, struggle to enter the kingdom, what hope is there for anyone else? Jesus’ response is both comforting and challenging—it is impossible by human standards, but with God, all things are possible. This echoes the central Christian belief in salvation by grace, not by our own efforts alone (CCC 1996).

Verse 28-30: “Peter began to say to him, ‘Look, we have left everything and followed you.’ Jesus said, ‘Truly I tell you, there is no one who has left house or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or fields, for my sake and for the sake of the good news, who will not receive a hundredfold now in this age… and in the age to come eternal life.’”
Peter, always the outspoken disciple, points out that he and the other apostles have already made the sacrifices Jesus is talking about. Jesus reassures them that their sacrifices will be rewarded—not just in eternal life, but even in this life. However, He adds that this comes “with persecutions,” reminding us that following Christ is not without challenges. St. Teresa of Ávila famously said, “If this is how you treat your friends, no wonder you have so few!”—a humorous reflection on the trials that often accompany discipleship.

Reflection
The Gospel calls us to examine our own attachments and willingness to follow Christ without reservation. The rich young man represents many of us—eager to do good but hesitant to fully surrender. Jesus invites us to trust that God’s promises far outweigh the temporary security of wealth or comfort. What am I holding onto that prevents me from fully following Christ? Am I willing to trust God enough to let go of my attachments?

A Call to Radical Trust in God’s Wisdom and Word

Today’s readings offer a powerful invitation to reexamine the direction of our lives. They remind us that divine wisdom is more precious than any earthly possession or accolade. Solomon, despite his great wealth and power, acknowledges that wisdom—God’s gift—was his greatest treasure. Psalm 90 reinforces this by urging us to “count our days” and seek God’s favor, reminding us that true joy is found not in what we acquire, but in how we live in alignment with God’s will. The second reading challenges us to let God’s Word, which is living and active, penetrate the depths of our hearts, discerning our true intentions and calling us to a deeper transformation.

Finally, the Gospel of Mark gives us a radical invitation to discipleship. Jesus calls us to let go of our attachments and trust that what we gain in return—eternal life and a deeper relationship with Him—is infinitely greater than what we leave behind. It is not easy, and like the rich young man, we may feel the weight of that decision. But Jesus reassures us that with God, all things are possible. We are not called to walk this journey alone, but with the grace and strength that comes from Him.

Engage with Us!

What do today’s readings say to you? How do they challenge you in your journey of faith? We’d love to hear your thoughts and reflections in the comments below!

Reflection Questions:

1. How do I prioritize God’s wisdom in my daily decisions?
2. Am I allowing God’s Word to deeply penetrate and change me, or am I resisting the truth it reveals?
3. What attachments am I holding onto that may be preventing me from fully following Jesus? How can I begin to let go and trust in God’s plan?

In a world that often values wealth, success, and comfort, these readings challenge us to look beyond the surface and focus on what truly matters—our relationship with God and the wisdom that comes from living according to His will. It is a call to radical trust, a trust that requires us to surrender everything to follow Christ.

---

Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for more insights and reflections on living a faith-filled life.