MARK 10
In Mark 10, we read about the rich young ruler. This wealthy man asked Jesus what he needed to do to inherit eternal life. After Jesus responded with the commandments, the man was challenged to sell everything he had and follow Jesus. He sadly walked away. Jesus then taught his disciples that God can do the impossible. Only God can save the lost.
-
The rich young ruler had everything he wanted in this life. He had his youth, wealth and prestige. Although his question to Jesus seems like a good one, his response revealed his heart. Although he wanted the security of eternal life, he was not willing to give up his worldly possessions for it. Many people today want the eternal or emotional blessings of God. They think there is an equation that will gain them the favor of God. If they do something good, read the Bible, go to church, or say a prayer, then God will grant them their wishes in some kind of cosmic trade-off. This story seems to illustrate that point. Jesus seems to be asking the ruler to give up his wealth for God’s salvation. In fact, this story is showing us man’s inability to earn salvation. The disciples asked Jesus who could possibly be saved. The man needed to ask for Jesus’ mercy and grace, not for the conditions or actions that would convince God to save him. How do I share the gospel with those who think salvation is earned by their actions? How can I show that salvation is only possible through God.
-
“For you are saved by grace through faith, and this is not from yourselves; it is God’s gift— not from works, so that no one can boast.” – Ephesians 2:8- 9
-
-
The illusion of safety from wealth is a dangerous trap. We think that if we have a big enough house, large enough retirement account, or enough food in the pantry, we are safe. That illusion leads to a false idea of self-sufficiency. How quickly can we lose everything? We should see the fallacy of this idea just by looking at recent news stories. How many homes were lost in the last hurricane season? How many retirement accounts have been drained by scammers? Food rots and cars get stolen. Cancer and heart attacks make temporary wealth seem insignificant. Jesus tells his disciples it is incredibly difficult for the rich to enter God’s kingdom. Wealth is not bad, but the desire for wealth should never become the primary goal in the life of the believer. How can I prioritize my relationship with God over the pursuit of temporary security? How can I use my earthly wealth to further the kingdom of God?
-
“Do not be afraid when a person gets rich, when the wealth of his house increases. For when he dies, he will take nothing at all; his wealth will not follow him down.” – Psalm 49:16
-
-
When we know ourselves well and understand our own sin, it seems impossible that God would love us. How can a perfect God, who created the universe, send his son to die for me? Why would he even want to? Only because of his great love for us would God do this. On our own, in our own strength, we would never reach God. With man, this is impossible. However, with God all things are possible. The impossibility of a God who would love the unlovable became a reality by the sacrifice of the son of God. This truth should move our hearts to tell the world. If we truly believe this, we cannot stay silent. Who, specifically, do I need to tell about God’s grace and mercy? What is keeping me from sharing with them?
-
“For while we were still helpless, at the right time, Christ died for the ungodly.” – Romans 5:6
-
Life Application:
Gratitude and thankfulness are key to the believer’s serenity. Only by recognizing the gifts we have been given can we stay centered in our reliance on God. Take time this week to make a list of the incredible gifts we have been given, both spiritual and physical, and thank God for them.
For Prayer:
Pray for teachers and students. It can be a big and scary world for children and teachers alike. As we enter Spring Break, pray that they can rest well and be ready for the rest of the year.