Thursday, June 27, 2024

Listen to the Word

Jesus looked at him and loved him. “One thing you lack,” he said. “Go, sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.” At this the man’s face fell. He went away sad, because he had great wealth.  (Mark 10:21-22)

Jesus offered a huge challenge to a man we have come to know as the rich young ruler. That description of him lets us know that he had three of the things our world thinks are important - wealth, youth, and influence. But Jesus knew that there was still something lacking, and he knew just the answer. The man needed to follow Him. But to be able to give his ultimate allegiance to Jesus, he would have to let go of the stuff that currently occupied first place in his heart. Jesus asked the man to give away his possessions to help the poor, giving God the opportunity to replace his love for money with a love for heavenly treasure.

Unfortunately, the man decided that parting with his wealth was too much of a risk. He held on to his pile of cash, but he missed the golden opportunity to live life as a disciple of Jesus.

Live the Word

Ask God to help you identify something you treasure that prevents you from following Jesus well. Ask him what he wants you to do about it.