Sunday 13 October 2024
Jesus, looking at him, loved him. (v. 21)
Background
In today’s passage Jesus encounters great wealth and great poverty. The wealthy man in the passage approaches Jesus with humility, bowing on his knees before him and ascribing 'goodness' to him before asking what would seem to be a fairly straightforward theological question. As is so often the case, Jesus does not play by the normal rules of engagement; he looks at the man, sees him, and lovingly gives him the answer he needs as well as the one he wants.
The thought of being seen by God can be both comforting and a little disconcerting! When I am rock climbing and nervous that I may fall, I want to know that the person on the other end of the rope is watching very carefully. However when I spot a speed camera my desire to be watched is somewhat different. When it comes to our faith, I think it is often similar… there are times when we want to know that “he who watches over you will not slumber” (Psalm 121:3), but there are times when we want to know how to escape God’s eternal gaze.
Sadly the rich young man counts the cost of love to be too high and the offer of love and fellowship to be too little in comparison to what must be left. His face fell, and with it, the opportunity to live a truly wealthy life slipped away.
To Ponder:
- Today marks the start of Prisons' Week. We are encouraging people to pray for all affected by imprisonment, knowing that we are all seen and loved by God. When prison chaplains visit prisoners in segregation, sit with grieving prison staff, or lead religious services they seek to have this effect, offering a knowledge that we are seen, and that we are loved. But Prisons' Week goes well beyond the fences and walls of prisons; we are called to pray for everyone affected by imprisonment, whether they work or live in prison, are victims of the behaviours of those in prison, are involved in administering justice, or have a relative who is affected.
Prisons' Week Prayer
Lord, you offer freedom to all people. We pray for those in prison. Break the bonds of fear and isolation that exist. Support with your love prisoners and their families and friends, prison staff and all who care. Heal those who have been wounded by the actions of others, especially the victims of crime. Help us to forgive one another, to act justly, love mercy and walk humbly together with Christ in his strength and in his Spirit, now and every day. Amen.
Bible notes author: The Revd Bob Wilson
Bob Wilson is a Baptist minister, serving as the Free Churches Faith and Belief Advisor to His Majesty’s Prison and Probation Service. He feels equally at home in prison and on the side of a mountain; living life in its fullness.