We all want a good life.
But what happens when the very things God has given us—money, success, influence, family, pleasure, authority, even ministry—begin to occupy a place that belongs to God alone?
In Episode 232 of the Huntley Leadership Podcast, Ron Huntley sits down with Tom Corcoran of Rebuilt Parish to explore one of Jesus' most challenging encounters: the rich young man who asks, "What must I do to inherit eternal life?"
The conversation goes far beyond money. Tom and Ron explore the ache for more that exists within every human heart, the difference between practicing a faith of rules and encountering Jesus, and the ways good things can quietly become idols when we look to them for the happiness and fulfillment only God can provide.
The rich young man was moral, religious and apparently successful. Yet he knew something was missing. His story gives us an opportunity to ask the same question of ourselves: What am I really seeking, and am I willing to let Jesus show me what is keeping me from Him?
In this episode, you’ll learn:
* Why the ache for "more" isn't necessarily a problem—and why becoming numb or indifferent to God can be far more concerning.
* What the rich young man's question about eternal life reveals about the human search for lasting happiness.
* Why following the commandments cannot be reduced to simply checking religious boxes.
* How good things such as money, authority, popularity and possessions can become idols when they take the place of God.
* How to recognize when an attachment has become something we're no longer free to surrender.
* Why Jesus' willingness to challenge us is actually an expression of His love.
* What the rich young man's decision to walk away can teach us about freedom, discipleship and the way Jesus invites rather than coerces us.
About Tom Corcoran
Tom Corcoran is the cofounder and president of Rebuilt Parish, a Catholic renewal ministry serving dioceses and parishes around the world. He also serves at Church of the Nativity in Timonium, Maryland, as associate to the pastor, where he oversees weekend message development, strategic planning, fundraising and staff development.
With more than 28 years of parish experience, Tom brings together pastoral insight and strategic clarity. He is the coauthor of *Rebuilt* and numerous other books and resources focused on Catholic renewal, discipleship, preaching, small groups and parish life.
In 2023, Tom Corcoran and Fr. Michael White were honored by Pope Francis with the Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice award for outstanding service to the Church.
Relevant Links: Rebuilt Parish
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rebuiltparish
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RebuiltParish/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/rebuiltparish
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/64728362
Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-rebuilt-parish-podcast/id1291771880
Book information: Jesus, the Rich Young Man, and the Meaning of Life by Tom Corcoran and Fr. Michael White.
Buy it on Ave Maria Press: https://www.avemariapress.com/products/jesus-the-rich-young-man-and-the-meaning-of-life-special-edition
Buy it on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/1646804848?lv=shuf&bestFormat=true
rebuiltparish.com/richyoungman
Parish Resources:
rebuiltparish.com/richyoungman
The book explores the depth of this Gospel encounter and invites readers to move beyond simply understanding the passage toward an encounter with Christ. Tom also discusses the possibility of using the book with small groups and parish communities as a tool for reflection and formation.
For parish leaders
Want to take a closer look at the missionary health of your parish?
Take the Parish Missionary Health Assessment at huntleyleadership.com.
And if this conversation is useful to you, subscribe to the Huntley Leadership Podcast and share this episode with a priest, parish leader or Catholic leader who might benefit from it.
