Eternal riches: A reflection on true value (Homily for Friday of the 11th week in ordinary time year II June 21 2024, St. Aloysius Gonzaga

Homily for Friday of the 11th week in ordinary time year II June 21 2024, (St. Aloysius Gonzaga)

2kings 11:1-4,9-18,20; Psalms 132;  Mathew 6:19-23

Eternal riches: A reflection on true value

In the Gospel according to Matthew, Jesus is depicted as an eminent teacher, a portrayal likely aimed at the Jewish Christians of Matthew's community. These early believers faced a profound dilemma: remain true to Jesus or adhere to the Jewish laws and traditions of their upbringing. In his teachings on the Kingdom of God, Jesus, who embodies the fulfillment of Jewish law, cautions his followers against the allure of material wealth. He emphasizes that such treasures are fleeting and limited in scope, whereas our ultimate destiny lies in eternity.

The material wealth of this world, while a testament to God's providence, can become an idol when it forms the basis of our confidence, happiness, and security. In the gospel narrative, Jesus asserts that the only enduring treasure is that of the heavenly realm.

This celestial treasure comprises two dimensions. Firstly, it encompasses the rewards that await us at the culmination of time. At the final judgment, we shall be compensated for every deed of love and adherence to Christ. Secondly, the treasure of heaven is accessible in the present. By surrendering to Christ, our earthly existence is imbued with a taste of the divine: the strength to conquer sin, the valor to act justly, reliance on God's mercy, a firm belief in truth, serenity amid adversity, joy from the assurance of salvation, godly insight for daily challenges, optimism for what lies ahead, and more. Indeed, what earthly treasure could possibly rival these?

On this day, we honor the memory of St. Aloysius Gonzaga. Born to a wealthy and prominent family, with his father holding the title of Duke, much was expected of Aloysius. He was anticipated to emerge as a distinguished statesman and warrior. However, following his First Holy Communion at the age of twelve, he chose a different path: he renounced his noble title in favor of his brother and pursued a religious vocation. It required tenacious effort to obtain his father's approval. By focusing on heavenly riches, Aloysius cultivated a profound prayer life.

He was graced with the ability to engage in an hour of undistracted mental prayer daily. Though his life was brief, ending at the age of twenty-three, his greatness was undeniable. By setting his sights on heavenly riches, his heart remained ever aligned with the Lord, who guided him towards acts of significant charity. Aloysius once remarked, "Our noble lineage does not warrant pride. Both the illustrious and the destitute return to dust; if anything, the remains of the noble may emit a fouler scent." This serves as a poignant reminder that our true worth is not measured by earthly standards but by the treasures we lay up in heaven.