Tuesday of week 20 in Ordinary Time 

Judges 6:11-24
Psalm 84(85):9,11-14
Matthew 19:23-30

Do you know that our acts of generosity and self-sacrifice often come back to us in unexpected ways?

In today’s gospel, Jesus challenges us with a striking message: entering the Kingdom is no walk in the park! Riches and worldly concerns can become pesky roadblocks on our spiritual journey. Just picture that jaw-dropping image of a camel squeezing through the eye of a needle! It’s a jolt to the senses, designed to stir our curiosity and leave us pondering. It’s in this state of wonder, with our minds wide open and free from preconceptions, that the Spirit can step in, guiding us toward profound insights and revelations.

But wait, there’s more! Peter layers in another fascinating aspect that often leaves people scratching their heads: the desire for recognition and reward. Even the most open-hearted, selfless disciple, eager to contribute to the Kingdom, has human instincts that crave acknowledgment. This is where things can get tricky. Just like heroic figures in timeless tales, the pursuit of recognition can distract us from our true mission. The quest for accolades might overshadow our commitment to nurturing the Kingdom’s growth.

Jesus perfectly understands this universal longing. He acknowledges that committing to marriage, relationships, single life, or a religious vocation in service of the Kingdom can come at a cost. We might have to sacrifice certain comforts to pour our love and energy into others.

But here’s the twist! Jesus also promises that our acts of generosity and self-sacrifice often come back to us in unexpected ways. Think about it—love sparks love, and generosity breeds generosity. We frequently find that what we give multiplies and returns to us tenfold! The rewards may not always be flashy or immediate, but they’re there—perhaps in a heartfelt thank you, witnessing someone else’s newfound freedom, or celebrating another’s success that we helped foster.

And sometimes, when we reach out to support a partner, child, friend, or even a stranger, we discover that we are the ones being uplifted, inspired, or guided by their strength or example!

So here’s the exciting lesson for us today: if we commit ourselves to a life of continual service to those we cherish and those in need, the returns will come—often when we least expect them! Jesus lived this reality, and he shares his wisdom with us: compassion and kindness spark a beautiful response in others. When we extend love without strings attached, it radiates outwards, not just transforming our lives but enriching the lives of countless others. The gifts we receive may be subtle or magnificent, but they’re sure to enrich our souls and the world around us!

Fr Joseph Osho