Why does Jesus object to being called good? “Why do you call me good? No one is good but God alone.” Our Lord wanted the Rich Young Man (and hence, us) to understand that goodness is not an accomplishment or an achievement. No one is good because of their ability to keep the commandments or to obey the rules. Goodness comes as a gift from God. Everything is a gift — even our ability to heed the commandments comes because God’s grace is in our hearts. That explains Jesus response to his questioner: “Go, sell what you have, and give to the poor.” By giving it all away a disciples learns to trust completely in God, not in what one has either materially or spiritually.
MARCH42019
By Church Staff
