What do I still lack?” : A mirror for Self-examination

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season:  Twentieth Week :  Monday*

*Gospel : Mt 19:16-22*

*First Reading : 1 Jgs 2:11-19*

*Responsorial Psalm : Ps 106:34-35, 36-37, 39-40, 43ab and 44*

*What do I still lack?” : A mirror for Self-examination*

*1) A deeper Spiritual insight*

The young man senses that something is missing — despite his outward obedience, his heart is not fully surrendered. His question reveals:

A desire for deeper fulfillment

A recognition that rule-following is not enough

A tension between self-righteousness and spiritual hunger

*2) A Question of Humility*

Asking *“What do I still lack?”* shows a level of humility — an openness to see that we’re not finished, even if we've done "everything right" outwardly.

It acknowledges:

There’s more to God, and more to spiritual maturity, than what I currently understand or live.

Am I willing to admit that I still have room to grow?

*3) Obedience Isn’t Always Enough*

The rich young man had kept the commandments, yet something was missing. 

This reflection points us to the truth that:

Obedience without relationship can still leave us empty.

God may be calling us to something deeper than just doing what’s expected.

Have I reduced faith to just following rules, or am I pursuing a living, transforming relationship with Christ?

*4) Letting Go of What Holds Me Back*

Jesus told the man to give up his possessions — not because money is bad, but because it was his idol. 

We all have our own version of this:

Comfort, success, control, reputation, even good things like family or ministry roles.

What might Jesus ask me to release so I can follow Him more freely?

*5) The Hidden Gap Between Action and Heart*

This question reveals the possibility that our external life may not match our internal surrender. 

The man looked righteous, but his heart was still attached elsewhere.

Is there a gap between how I appear spiritually and where my heart actually is?

*6) Invitation to Deeper Discipleship*

“What do I still lack?” isn’t just about what’s missing — it’s an invitation. 

Jesus doesn’t shame the man. He invites him to more: *“Come, follow me.”*

What is Jesus inviting me into that I’ve been avoiding or postponing?

*7) Application to Our Lives*

*A) Self-Examination*

Like the rich young man, we may do “everything right” outwardly — attend church, serve others, avoid sin — and still feel spiritually unfulfilled. This verse invites us to ask:

What is still holding me back from fully following Jesus?

Is there anything I’m unwilling to surrender?

*B) Beyond Rule-Keeping*

Christianity isn’t just about morality — it’s about relationship and transformation. Jesus wants our heart, not just our good behavior.

*C) A Call to Detachment*

Jesus’ challenge to the young man was specific to his wealth, but the principle applies to all of us:

Is there something I treasure more than God?

What am I clinging to that prevents me from radical discipleship?

*“What Do I Still Lack?” — A Mirror for the Soul for self examination*

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*