Look beyond

The scripture readings we have heard today all remind us that if we want to discover true success, we need to look beyond the present moment.  The Book of Ecclesiastes says that no matter how much toil and strain we may exert, all is vanity (Ecc 1:2).  In other words, no amount of earthly success will ever be able to fully respond to our quest for acceptance, self worth and happiness.

The parable of the rich fool, which we heard in today's gospel (cf Lk 12:16-20) also reinforces the importance of judging our successes on a larger scale than we might sometimes be used to considering.  When all is said and done, it really doesn't matter how many physical possessions we accumulate.  The true measure of our success will always be determined by whether we have been able to see Jesus in our brothers and sisters and the extent to which we have used the gifts God has given us to respond to the needs of others.

So how is it that we can store up treasure for ourselves in heaven (cf Lk 12:21)?  Saint Paul tells us that we should set our minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth (Col 3:2).  This is not easy to do because the lure of earthly possessions is very difficult to resist, however it is possible for us to abstain from habits that are based on earthly desires and to clothe ourselves with the new self which is being renewed ... according to the image of its creator (Col 3:10).  Many others have led exemplary and inspiring lives by striving each day to look beyond.  We can too.