Wednesday 12 September 2007
- Bible Book:
- Luke
He replied, 'I have kept all these since my youth.' When Jesus heard this, he said to him, 'There is still one thing lacking. Sell all that you own and distribute the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; then come, follow me.' But when he heard this, he became very sad; for he was very rich". (v.18-23)
Background
Addressing Jesus as 'good teacher' was unparalleled by a Jew andwithin Jewish literature for only the law is good. Jesus thereforereplies by driving the young man back to the law. It isindisputable that this rich man was a good man but that he feltthat something was lacking in his life, there was an emptinesswithin his heart and soul that no amount of riches couldfill.
Whilst Jesus recognises the goodness of the man, he does notquestion the man's assertion that he has faithfully upheld the lawthroughout his life, he does however, see the root of the problem -his wealth. Only by ridding himself of the burden of wealth andfollowing Jesus can the man find peace within. This is too great acost for him. He desires earthly comfort and power above heavenlyriches found by following Jesus.
To Ponder
Are there stumbling blocks that are preventingyou from truly finding peace within?
What is Jesus calling you to 'give up' that youmight discover all the riches of heaven?