The Rich and the Kingdom of God

We are rich. We just don’t know it sometimes…

Mark 10:17-22
17 As Jesus started on his way, a man ran up to him and fell on his knees before him. “Good teacher,” he asked, “what must I do to inherit eternal life?”

18 “Why do you call me good?” Jesus answered. “No one is good—except God alone. 19 You know the commandments: ‘You shall not murder, you shall not commit adultery, you shall not steal, you shall not give false testimony, you shall not defraud, honor your father and mother.’[d]”

20 “Teacher,” he declared, “all these I have kept since I was a boy.”

21 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.”

22 At this the man’s face fell. He went away sad, because he had great wealth.

I consider myself very wealthy. I have all that I need, and more than I want sometimes. That must qualify as wealthy. Yet I am not always satisfied. I wake as want more.

As we walk this Earth, we are submerged in sin. Like water, we are encompassed by it. It trails us like a stalking lion ready to pounce at a moment of weakness. So how do we survibe. Surly something must be watching us, taking care of us, holding us upright. Yes…

It’s not money. Money fails us. It never gives us what we really want. It can’t buy live. Not true love anyway. When Jesus was speaking to this wealthy young man, all He did was tell him the truth. He simply said, “Your money is going to get in your way. It’s going to come between you and me.” That’s it. That’s all He meant. And with that, the young man’s heart was broken. Why? Because He was scared. He’s feared unconditional love. The love of Jesus.

I would have trouble too, if I was young and wealthy. It doesn’t mean that as this young man walked away that Jesus didn’t live Him. After all, just a short while mater Jesus would give His life for that boy. For all of us us.

Happiness comes from relationships. Those of you that have lots of money, use it to build more Christ-like relationships with the less fortunate. Take other to huge dinner parties, then share scripture. But out the Bible and pass it around and have someone share their favorite verse. Then ask why it is their favorite. Sounds like a beautiful night to me. I would love to come.

Share. Love. Use it for others. #JesusSaves

Amen
DK