When I was in elementary school, I loved the SRA reading mastery system. This was a set of reading materials through which children could move at their own pace. You’d read a selection, answer the questions about it, and if you were correct, move on to the next story or harder category. It was a perfect system for over-achievers – a clear path to success, with an almost unlimited number of steps to complete.
That’s what the man in this week’s gospel story reminds me of – someone doing the spiritual equivalent of SRA. This fellow who ran up to Jesus was a good and serious man, meticulous in following God’s commandments, humble and faithful. Even so he is unsure of his ultimate future. So he comes to find Jesus: As Jesus was setting out on a journey, a man ran up and knelt before him, and asked him, ‘Good Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?’
Jesus asks why he calls him “good teacher,” telling him that only God is fully good. He reminds him of the Law – living according to God’s commandments is the way to demonstrate your goodness. The man assures Jesus he has kept these all his life. Then Jesus adds a twist.
But wait - before we look at that, let’s stop and wonder at this man. He has kept all the commandments his whole life? That’s amazing! What kind of person is this? A person who can say, “I’m a good person,” is both admirable and deeply saddening. Saddening, because those who locate their righteousness in their own ability to follow the rules often find it harder to open themselves to God's love.
There are two approaches to holiness. One is the “SRA,” rung-climbing, rule-following, sometimes teeth-gritting way of “Give me the directions; I can do it myself.” The other is to be clear-eyed about our weaknesses as well as strengths, willing to be repentant and vulnerable, compassionate toward self and others. I believe that the first approach leaves us little room to grow, while the second allows infinite space for maturing in faith and love. There is nothing wrong with “good people.” It’s just that so often those who say “I’m a good person” say it defensively, explaining why they don’t bother much with God or religious life.
Do you know anyone in that category? I don't wish to sound judgmental – I just don’t think it works. It’s like saying, “I’ve arrived. There is nothing more I need.” Now, this man talking to Jesus wasn’t quite that way – he figured there must be something more he needed to do, more rungs on that ladder to heaven. That’s the trap for the “good person,” thinking we can “do” our way into the Kingdom of Life, when Jesus said it is a gift we need to receive. The last thing this man needed was another spiritual task (though Jesus gave him a whopper...). He needed to submit himself to Love.
“I’m a good person,” is a conversation stopper. What do you say to that? “Good for you?” “No, you’re not?” I think the next time someone says that to me, I will smile and say, “Great. Are you a loved person?” That’s what matters.
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