As Marie sat and listened to the gospel readings and the homily this morning, it occurred to her that she would also have acted exactly like the rich man who sought the kingdom of God, but could not give up his worldly treasures to follow Jesus.. ....if she were ever in that situation. . (not that she has the wealth to give up of course). Giving up everything is easier said than done especially if one has to turn away from family, loved ones and at the same time give up whatever treasures and wealth in our possession. Weakness is in our blood.. That is why Marie admires those who dedicate and devote themselves to God- The people who place God foremost in their lives. This group of religious and priestly people are a class of their own in an earth full of ordinary beings, who as humans, probably places 'self ' above service to God . Yours truly is one guilty soul.

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But then again, surely the Lord did not speak literally, that all rich men cannot enter the kingdom of Heaven. If that is so, there would not be wealth or riches in this world. If one is rich, but generous in spirit and soul, the kingdom of God is more than open to us; that is, if one allows God to lead our lives. When we do that, we are like little children before Him , our spirit becomes meek unto Him to do his bidding. We need the rich to help the poor, the needy etc..etc..We need money for the basic needs in life. When we are rich in wealth, but also rich in our love for God; surely then, heaven will not closed its doors upon our good virtues. Everyone is given their talents; it just meant, the rich has got their five talents and if they put it to good use, they too shall receive their reward.

The Bible is a living Book of wisdom and believe it or not, it does follow the changing of the times. To Marie that is...Many things could be interpreted in accordance with the present. One has to read the Word of the Lord with wisdom......(pray for the wisdom to flow upon us)..... read and reflect ...then, only then, clarity comes. Reading the Bible, requires a little meditation, and with it, the words comes alive and solutions to the numerous questions in life becomes clear. People, Have you ever felt, you needed answers and upon opening the Bible, you see the answers staring out at you from the very page you opened? You were amazed, were you not??? Happy Reading Folks, let the Bible speak to you!