August 18, 2026
20th Week in Ordinary Time
The Ultimate Retirement
…it is easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle than for the one who is rich to enter the Kingdom of God.

Matthew 19:24

My husband and I are surrounded by people who are buying second homes, retiring early and taking exotic trips. We had kids later than most. With three college tuitions still to be paid, we can’t follow suit right now. But, oh how we dream…

On the days our dreams turn to obsession, Matthew 19:24 helps us see the trap we’ve fallen into. If we covet the prizes of wealth and leisure, we’ll become the proverbial camels who’ll never pass through the eye of the needle.

Instead, we need to emulate the widow who gives her last two coins (Mark 12:41-44)—despite the tuition payments due. That’s how we’ll gain the trip of a lifetime to our second home in a place far more exotic than anywhere here on earth.

Gracious God, keep us focused on the prize of eternity with you.

- Claire McGarry

Ezekiel 28:1-10 ✚ Deuteronomy 32:26-28, 30, 35-36 ✚ Matthew 19:23-30
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Comments

Cheryl
August 18, 2026 at 07:54 PM

Thank you Claire for your reflection today..I acknowledge that the little I have and own is all because of what the Lord has provided...I share with the church with a happy spirit and I have seen my cup overfloweth... and I share and share again... our Lord works wonders in our lives

freeter
August 18, 2026 at 11:25 AM

Amen.

Patrick
August 18, 2026 at 10:55 AM

If we seek our security in wealth or possessions, we will cease to rely on God who alone gives access to salvation, to life in abundance. ——— If, acknowledging our poverty, we place our security in God, in the Lord, then, according to Jesus in today’s gospel reading, we will be abundantly repaid in this earthly life, and also inherit eternal life. ——— Matthew 6:33 says, "But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well" ——— I think and hope our eternal lives will be ones of active retirement.

Claire McGarry
August 18, 2026 at 02:28 PM

Amen!

CBR
August 18, 2026 at 09:17 AM

Amen Amen Amen God bless you all

Holly
August 18, 2026 at 08:36 AM

Amen!

Salina (not in control)
August 18, 2026 at 08:32 AM

*** Does it mean it’s bad to be rich in Matthew 19:23-24, “Then Jesus said to his disciples, “What I’m about to tell you is true. It is hard for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of heaven. Again I tell you, it is hard for a camel to go through the eye of a needle. But it is even harder for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God.” *** It is not about being rich but how being rich changes your heart (proud) and your reality (being your own god) in Ezekiel 28:1-2a, “The...
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Salina (not in control)
August 18, 2026 at 08:32 AM

*** Does it mean it’s bad to be rich in Matthew 19:23-24, “Then Jesus said to his disciples, “What I’m about to tell you is true. It is hard for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of heaven. Again I tell you, it is hard for a camel to go through the eye of a needle. But it is even harder for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God.” *** It is not about being rich but how being rich changes your heart (proud) and your reality (being your own god) in Ezekiel 28:1-2a, “The...
Read more

Claire McGarry
August 18, 2026 at 02:27 PM

Amen!

Stormi
August 18, 2026 at 08:21 AM

Claire your words are so heartfelt thank you. They sooth a weary soul. I have a question for you Claire. Awhile back you put a comment on your reflection "nobody has ever died from words of affirmation but some people are shriveling for a lack of them." I want to use those words but don't want to offend taking someone else words. Can I share those words? Blessings to all the LFF, especially those with extra needs. Holy Spirit fill the hearts of all to guide us to a heavenly earth.

Claire McGarry
August 18, 2026 at 02:27 PM

Such kind words, Stormi. Thank you! As far as that quote goes, in all honesty, I have no recollection of writing it. Are you sure it was me? If you're certain, please feel free to use the phrase. There's no better compliment than to be quoted. :)

Gary
August 18, 2026 at 08:19 AM

Amen!

ADV
August 18, 2026 at 08:10 AM

AMEN!

Scott
August 18, 2026 at 07:35 AM

Greetings this morning virtual Living Faith Ohana (Family); praying for those who are in need of God's blessings of comfort, peace, healing and love. Blessings Claire for the inspired word that you shared today. In all my years of ministry I have never thought of this Gospel as a way to look at retirement. You have given me a new understanding which is the reason I appreciate being involved in reading and studying the devotional readings. The word saving comes to my mind this morning also based upon your reading. Not so much monetary savings, retirement savings, college tuition savings......
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Claire McGarry
August 18, 2026 at 02:24 PM

Thank you, Scott, for your encouragement and for your reflection on the word saving. Love that new twist and perspective!

Marko
August 18, 2026 at 07:35 AM

May God bless you and your husband Claire!

Claire McGarry
August 18, 2026 at 02:22 PM

Thank you, Marko! Many blessings to you too.

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