Embracing True Freedom

Sunday 28 in Year B

I delve into a profound biblical encounter that speaks volumes about our spiritual journey and the quest for true freedom. The story of the young man who approaches Jesus, eager to inherit eternal life, is a powerful narrative that resonates with many of us, especially those who are young and zealous in their faith. This reflection is not just about the young man’s question but about the deeper themes of attachment, freedom, and spiritual fulfillment.

The Eagerness of Youth

The young man in the story runs to Jesus, symbolising a youthful eagerness and a quest for deeper meaning. His question, “What must I do to inherit eternal life?” is a reflection of his earnest desire to live a life that is pleasing to God. This desire is something many of us can relate to, especially when we first encounter the beauty of love, life, and goodness. We are filled with zeal and a longing to understand the steps we must take to achieve spiritual fulfillment.

Following the Commandments

Jesus responds to the young man’s question by listing several of the Ten Commandments, along with an additional admonition against defrauding others. This response highlights the importance of living a moral and ethical life. The young man confidently asserts that he has adhered to these commandments since his youth, showcasing his dedication and moral integrity. However, this is just the beginning of his spiritual journey.

The Gaze of Love and Insight

The encounter takes a poignant turn when Jesus gazes at the young man with love and insight. This moment of connection is akin to being seen by a wise mentor who understands the depths of our hearts and desires our true freedom. I recall a personal experience with a spiritual director who possessed this kind of profound wisdom. Being truly seen and loved can be transformative, as it allows us to confront our deepest attachments and fears.

The Challenge of Letting Go

Jesus then presents the young man with a seemingly simple yet profound challenge: to sell all his possessions and give the proceeds to the poor. This request reveals the deeper issue of attachment to material wealth. The young man’s response is one of sadness; he is unable to part with his possessions, signifying a deeper struggle with letting go of what he holds dear.

The Metaphor of the Bird

Drawing on the writings of St John of the Cross, we can understand this struggle through the metaphor of a bird that longs to fly but is hindered by being tied down, whether by a heavy rope or a fine thread. The essence of this metaphor is that any form of attachment can prevent us from experiencing true freedom. Just as the bird cannot soar until it breaks free from its constraints, we must identify and address the ties that bind us—be they material possessions, past wounds, or unfulfilled dreams.

Identifying Our Attachments

I encourage you to reflect on your own life and consider what might be holding you back from experiencing the fullness of life that Jesus offers. It may not always be wealth; for some, it could be emotional baggage, relationships that have soured, or a sense of lost identity. The invitation is to recognise these ties and to allow Jesus to help us cut them, enabling us to embrace the freedom that comes from living in alignment with God’s will.

The Journey Toward Freedom

Ultimately, the message is one of hope and liberation. Jesus desires for us to experience the kind of freedom that allows us to soar like the bird, finding rest in the divine embrace. This spiritual journey toward freedom requires a willingness to let go of attachments and to trust in the transformative power of God’s love.

Practical Steps to Embrace Freedom

Here are some practical steps to help you on this journey:

  • Self-Examination: Regularly take time to reflect on your life and identify any attachments that may be holding you back.
  • Prayer and Meditation: Engage in prayer and meditation to seek God’s guidance and strength in letting go of these attachments.
  • Seek Spiritual Direction: Find a spiritual director or mentor who can offer wisdom and insight, much like the gaze of Jesus in the story.
  • Acts of Charity: Practice acts of charity and generosity, which can help detach you from material possessions and focus on the needs of others.
  • Community Support: Surround yourself with a supportive faith community that encourages and uplifts you on your spiritual journey.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the encounter between Jesus and the young man is a powerful reminder of the importance of seeking true freedom in Christ. By recognising and letting go of our attachments, we can fully embrace the life that God has in store for us. Let us trust in the transformative power of God’s love and embark on this journey toward spiritual fulfillment and true freedom.

May we all find the courage to let go of what holds us back and soar freely in the divine embrace. Amen.

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