The Idols We Cling To and the One Thing We Lack

Judg 2:11-19, Psalm: 105, Mt 19:16-22

Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ, today, we will reflect on the truth of the idols we cling to and the one thing we lack. Israel’s cycle of idolatry and the rich young man’s sorrow reveal the same truth: Half-hearted faith always disappoints; total surrender alone satisfies. 

In our journey of faith, we often find ourselves caught in a vicious cycle, much like the Israelites in the book of Judges. Their story is a tragic pattern of apostasy, divine judgment, repentance, deliverance, and then the all too familiar relapse. During this time, the Israelites turned away from God, worshiping Baal, a false god that promised them security and prosperity. In their desire for comfort, they lost sight of the One who had delivered them from bondage. God, in His mercy, would allow them to experience the consequences of their choices, leading them to cry out for help. They were delivered time and time again, only to relapse into their old ways. This cycle is not just ancient history. It is a mirror reflecting our own lives today. We may not worship wooden idols, but we certainly have our modern Baals. Perhaps it is the idol of wealth, success, or even our possessions. We cling to these things, believing they will fulfill us. But as St. John Chrysostom wisely said, Jesus did not condemn wealth but the attachment that chains the soul.

The rich young man in Matthew 19 approached Jesus with sincerity. He called Him a good teacher and recounted the commandments he followed. But Jesus, in His love, looked at him and saw the one thing lacking. This man was good, but he had not surrendered. He had followed the commandments, but he had not followed the call of surrender. Jesus asked him to sell all he had and give to the poor, and then to follow Him. The rich young man left sorrowful, unable to part with his treasures. He loved his possessions more than the truth that could set him free. The call to follow Christ is a call to let go of our idols.

So, what does this mean for our daily lives? First, we must name our Baal. What is it that you cling to? What is the attachment that keeps you from experiencing the fullness of life in Christ? Is it your career, your status, or perhaps a relationship? Acknowledge it, bring it to the light, and let it go. Next, we must embrace the one thing lacking. For the rich young man, it was surrender. What does surrender look like for you? It may mean prioritizing your relationship with God above all else. It may mean stepping out in faith, trusting that God will provide when you let go of control. We must also cry out for mercy. Just as the Israelites did in Judges, we need to recognize our need for divine help. Cry out for mercy when you struggle with your idols. God is waiting to respond with love and grace. Finally, follow, don’t flee. When Jesus calls us to follow Him, it is an invitation to a life of purpose and fulfillment. As St. Pope John Paul II taught us, “Do not be afraid to give Christ everything! He gives back infinitely more: freedom, joy, and eternal life.” Do not be like the rich young man who turned away. Instead, take that step of faith. Embrace the journey of following Christ, even when it is challenging.

In conclusion, let us not allow our idols to keep us from the abundant life that Jesus offers. Let us acknowledge what we cling to, embrace the surrender He calls us to, cry out for mercy, and follow Him wholeheartedly. Amen.