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What Matters Most? Family Reflection Video

What Matters Most? Family Reflection Video

Love thy Neighbor

Late for a meeting, John ran out of the house that morning without giving his young daughter a kiss.

Years later, no one would remember John was late for a meeting, but the little girl would never forget that her dad drove back to kiss her.

In today’s Gospel passage, Jesus asks us to reflect on what matters most: your hearts or your barns?

A young man asks Jesus to settle his family dispute over inheritance. Jesus uses the opportunity to invite his listeners to check their attitudes toward earthly possessions through the parable of a rich fool. Unlike other parables, in which the protagonist comes to a turning point, the rich man in today’s passage failed to repent..

  • He is called a fool because he was full of himself and did not think of his neighbors.

  • He depended on himself and not on God.

  • He multiplied his possessions but compromised his values.

  • He spent more time increasing his wealth but less time enjoying it.

  • He built bigger barns but let his heart grow smaller.

  • He planned more but accomplished less.

  • He increased his profits but not his relationships.

  • He was rich in resources but poor in character.

“A truly rich man is one whose children can run into his arms when his hands are empty.” True riches are probably those we let go: our generous sharing of material riches, our time, talents, knowledge, love, energy, a loving gesture, a beautiful smile, and a forgiving heart.

What do I need to empty, to let God and others in?


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About Father Jilson Tom, C.S.C.

Father Jilson Tom, C.S.C. is from the Northeast India Province of Holy Cross. A native of Kerala, Father Jilson has been serving in a parish and school ministry since his ordination twelve years ago. He joins the Family Rosary team as an Assistant, while he works to study Pastoral Counseling in the Boston area. With a personal devotion to Mother Mary, Father Jilson is thrilled to be working to enhance family prayer through the Rosary. And if you ever need a listening ear or want to play a board game, Father Jilson’s your guy!