Mark 10:17-25 is a parable about a rich man and he was asking Jesus, “What he needed to do to inherit eternal life?” Which is a very good question especially since vast majority of Americans are “rich”…myself included. I absolutely love Jesus response to the question because He LOOKED at the rich man and LOVED the rich man (verse 21)!
The emphasis on the look is that Jesus took time to acknowledge this man. He didn’t walk by or blow him off because of the man’s status. Jesus took the time to engage in conversation and address an area in this man’s life that he is struggling with. So often I talk with wealthy individuals and just assume everything is okay because they are put together, have a fancy house, and a car that doesn’t break down. But in reality what could be breaking down the most is what matters the most, which is their relationship with Jesus. Will this person spend eternity worshipping Jesus or separated from Jesus?
Mark also points out that Jesus loved this man! Jesus spoke the truth, but He spoke it out of love! There is a huge difference in getting advice out of love versus out of hate. Jesus knew His words probably wouldn’t be well received by this man, but Jesus choose to love him first AND share a bold truth to him.
Jesus then instructs the man to sell everything, give to the poor, and then come follow Him.
That response always left me puzzled and confused. How does that relate to modern times? Did Jesus really mean everything? Where am I supposed to go after that? Then moving day for the World Race came upon me…and the answer hit me like an overloaded moving truck.
It took 7 absolutely fantastic friends and family to help me get everything boxed up, packed up, and cleaned up in Canton, Ohio to move back to South Carolina. They jumped in head first on short notice to help in this phase for the World Race. From deep cleaning, carrying washer/dryer out of the depths of the basement, to odd ball tasks….they got it done with a huge smile on their face. I was overwhelmed by their servitude.
When all the moving was completed the rich man parable from Mark kept coming to my mind. God spoke to me and said “It’s not necessarily all about ‘selling’ everything, but the willingness to put your possessions aside and move when you are called to move.”
Let’s face it, moving is HARD! You are replacing the comforts of the known for the unknown. The important thing to know is that you aren’t alone! Just like my friends and family were by my side on moving day, Jesus is constantly walking by our sides every day!
When we call out to Jesus, He will look at you, love you, and speak a bold truth into our lives. That truth looks differently for everyone. It will be hard, but fear not because Jesus is always by our side and has overcome everything!
Be Bold in pursuing what Jesus is speaking into your life.
Be Intentional in digging into His word daily.
Random thoughts/facts
14 days until launch in Atlanta, GA
Weather in SC has been 64/50
Food=dining out>home cooked meals….hopefully this ratio will change over Christmas week
Merry Christmas!
