Readings for today: Leviticus 24:1-25:46, Mark 10:13-31, Psalms 44:9-26, Proverbs 10:20-21
The story of the rich young ruler is one of the more well-known in the gospels. Jesus is traveling up to Jerusalem, preparing to lay down His life for the sins of the world. Along the way, a young man approaches Him with urgent question...”What must I do to inherit eternal life?” Jesus responds with the typical Jewish answer. “Keep the commandments.” The young man gets excited. “I’ve kept them all since my youth.” Jesus looks him with love in His eyes. He knows what’s coming. Knows He’s about to expose the idolatry of the young man’s heart. “Go. Sell all you have. Give it to the poor. And come follow Me.” The young man turns away.
There are so many dynamics in play here. The longing of the young man for eternal life. The tender love of Jesus as He looks into the young man’s heart. The faithfulness of the young man as he sought to honor God by keeping all the commandments. The challenge and invitation Jesus offers the young man. The deep sorrow he feels as he turns away.
I find these same dynamics in play in my own heart on a regular basis. I too long for eternal life. I wonder at times if I have done enough. I question my own faithfulness. Thankfully, I have also experienced the tender love of Jesus as He ministers to my heart. Assures me of His forgiveness and grace. Reminds me my salvation doesn’t rest on my work. I too have sought to keep God’s commandments. To live faithfully according to His Word. And I have felt the bite of Jesus’ challenge to give all I have away for the sake of the gospel.
Where do you find yourself in this story? Try reading it again but slowly. Savor every word. Ponder every question. Reflect on every statement. Allow God’s Word to sink deep into your soul. Do you feel the urgency of the young man’s initial question? The pride of knowing you live faithfully according to God’s Will? The sorrow of the young man’s rejection? Have you experienced the tenderness of Jesus? Do you know you are the object of His unfailing love? Have you found the courage to walk by faith, sell all you have, and follow Christ?
Readings for tomorrow: Leviticus 25:47-27:13, Mark 10:32-52, Psalms 45, Proverbs 10:22