The Rich Young Man Thinks

Posted by Fr. Austin

"Just one thing,"
He says.
I am lacking in one thing.
But,
oh!,
what a thing!

How can I live up
to such a demanding Teacher?
I've done it all -
the commandments,
the Law -
since my youth.
Surely,
that is enough?

I was so ready
to follow.
So ready to be a disciple,
to be His.
All,
except for that
one,
little,
thing.

So I walked away.
I can still feel his stare,
still see his eyes,
so full of love,
looking deep into me.
Surely,
He knows my heart.
Surely,
He knows my desire.
He knows I am sad,
for I have so much.
Is it that easy?

His eyes stay with me -
loving me?
So, what do I do now,
having walked away?
Is there a way back?
I can't keep these things forever.
Maybe I can surrender?
Maybe I can return?
Yes.
Maybe I can.

Just one thing is lacking.