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Manila Bulletin devider Opinion devider What good must I do to gain eternal life?

What good must I do to gain eternal life?

Published Aug 17, 2026 12:05 am  |  Updated Aug 16, 2026 03:37 pm
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The rich young man’s question reveals his genuine desire to do what is right and to secure a place in eternal life with God. However, his understanding of goodness and salvation is centered on his own actions and deeds. Jesus’ initial response to keep the commandments affirms the importance of living a moral life, yet it is just the starting point. Jesus challenges the young man to go beyond compliance to the tenets of the commandments. The radical call to discipleship is following Jesus—for the real treasure of heaven comes from him. Jesus challenges the young man to detach himself from earthly attachments and possessions; rather, he must focus on the real treasure in heaven. This treasure is not just a reward in the afterlife, but the richness of a life lived in close communion with God. Jesus does not demand that we literally give up home and possessions. He wants us, instead, to be free from attachments that block a wholehearted obedience to God.
St. John Baptist de la Salle says, “It is not sin to have riches, but it is a sin to fix our hearts upon them.”
Responsorial Psalm • Dt 32
“You have forgotten God who gave you birth.”
Gospel • Mt 19:16-22
A young man approached Jesus and said, “Teacher, what good must I do to gain eternal life?” He answered him, “Why do you ask me about the good? There is only One who is good. If you wish to enter into life, keep the commandments.” He asked him, “Which ones?” And Jesus replied, “ ‘You shall not kill; you shall not commit adultery; you shall not steal; you shall not bear false witness; honor your father and your mother’; and ‘you shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ ” The young man said to him, “All of these I have observed. What do I still lack?” Jesus said to him, “If you wish to be perfect, go, sell what you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.” When the young man heard this statement, he went away sad, for he had many possessions.
Source: “365 Days with the Lord 2026,” St. Paul’s, 7708 St. Paul Rd., SAV, Makati City (Phils.); Tel.: 632-895-9701; E-mail: [email protected].
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