Mark 10:17-27
Jesus has just encountered a rich young man eager to “inherit eternal life.” He sent the young man away and insisted that he sold everything he owned and give the money to the poor. If he did this, he would be invited to follow Jesus. The young man was devastated. He had lots of stuff! His possessions were especially important to him. Jesus is not saying that the young man is blocked from eternal life because he is wealthy; he is pointing out that this man is blocked from inheriting eternal life because his wealth is of more importance to him than the kingdom of heaven.
Jesus relates entering the kingdom of God to a camel going through the eye of a needle! The disciples are confused at this point because they are wondering, if it is this hard to gain eternal life, is anyone going to even want eternal life? That is when Jesus, in verse 27 says, “For mortals it is impossible, but not for God; for God all things are possible.”
If we let our mortal minds take root in our being, we become distracted by the world and its temptations, such as money and success. Jesus is telling us that our hearts and minds should be focused on Him. Christ is the presence of God. When we claim that God resides in our hearts and we turn to Him in all things, that is when “all things are possible.”
It is easy to get overwhelmed with the world and its offerings. This message is not meant for anyone to feel guilty about having money and success, it serves as a reminder that we must rely on God in all things, especially when things like money and success are abundant. We should rely on God when our days are routine, and no problems are keeping are attention.
Everyone has problems and struggles. One person’s struggle is another person’s regular way of life. It is not about whose problem is worse or who is richer than the next. Wherever situation in which we find ourselves, we all must remember to rely on God.
- Through the good times and the bad times.
- When you feel forgotten by the world.
- When you are physically and emotionally well.
- And when your health is at its worst and its best.
Remember whose you are, Beloved.
Grace and peace,
Pastor Cazandra