Reflect today on the goal of building a treasure in heaven

Da Paolo Tessione - August 18, 2020

"But many of the first will be the last, and the last will be the first." Matthew 19:30

This little line, tucked into the end of today's Gospel, reveals a lot. It reveals a contradiction between worldly success and eternal success. So often we seek worldly success and fail to seek the riches that last for eternity.

Let's start with the "many who are first". Who are these people? To understand this we must understand the difference between the "world" and the "Kingdom of God". The world refers to purely vain popularity within a given culture. Success, prestige, vainglory and the like accompany worldly popularity and success. The evil one is the lord of this world and will often seek to arouse those who serve his ungodly will. But in doing so, many of us are drawn and drawn to this form of notoriety. This is a problem, especially when we begin to take our identity in the opinions of others.

The "many firsts" are those whom the world elevates as icons and models of this popular success. This is a general statement that certainly does not apply to every particular situation and person. But the general trend should be recognized. And according to this Scripture, those who will be drawn into this life will be "the last" in the Kingdom of Heaven.

Compare it to those who are "first" in the Kingdom of God. These holy souls may or may not be honored in this world. Some may see their goodness and honor them (as Saint Mother Teresa was honored), but very often they are humiliated and considered undesirable in a worldly way.

What is more important? What do you honestly prefer for all eternity? Do you prefer to be well thought out in this life, even if it means compromising values and truth? Or are your eyes fixed on truth and eternal rewards?

Reflect today on the goal of building a treasure in heaven and on the eternal reward promised to those who live a life of faithfulness. There is nothing wrong with being well thought out by others in this world, but you must never allow such a desire to dominate you or dissuade you from keeping your eyes on what is eternal. Reflect on how well you do it and try to make Heaven's rewards your unique goal.

Lord, please help me to seek You and Your Kingdom above all else. May it please You and serve Your Most Holy will be my one and only desire in life. Help me get rid of the unhealthy worries of worldly notoriety and popularity by taking care only of what you think. I give you, dear Lord, my whole being. Jesus I believe in you.