Jesus looked around and said to his disciples, “How hard it is for those who have wealth to enter the Kingdom of God!” The disciples were amazed at his words. So Jesus again said to them in reply, “Children, how hard it is to enter the Kingdom of God! It is easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle than for one who is rich to enter the Kingdom of God.” They were exceedingly astonished and said among themselves, “Then who can be saved?” Jesus looked at them and said, “For men it is impossible, but not for God. All things are possible for God.”
- Mark 10:17-27
Today's Gospel reading poses a question for Christians: "Do I really have to give away all that I possess in order to be saved?" If we take Jesus at his word, this is exactly what we must do in order to enter heaven. But is that really what Jesus wants us to do. It would seem that Jesus does not necessarily expect or believe that all, or even any of his followers to meet this standard. Instead, Jesus wants us to do our best and then trust in God. As He says, "For men it is impossible, but not for God. All things are possible for God."
So what does that mean for us? It means that we must do our best to share the wealth and blessings we have been given with those around us. We must always look out for our neighbors and help our fellow men and women. This can be done by donating both our time and treasure to charity and those we see who our in need. This is truly what we are called to do as Christians: to care for the community around us. If we do this, then we must trust in God's mercy and forgiveness to do the rest!