Those who are invested in what they have, whether it is wealth or beliefs or value systems struggle giving them up to gain Jesus.
Anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.
Luke 18:17
There is a simplicity in following Jesus that threatens what we esteem.
A certain ruler asked him, “Good teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?”
Luke 18:18-19
“Why do you call me good?” Jesus answered.
This ruler had a view of Jesus, which while true, had put Jesus on a pedestal and he wanted to join him there. That desire had to be surrendered.
Jesus answered. “You know the commandments …”
Luke18:20
The ruler was looking for something that would make him special. Jesus took him back to the ABCs. In our terms it would be, love God and love your neighbour.
When the ruler persisted, Jesus gave him a simple application to the ABCs.
“You still lack one thing. Sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.” When he heard this, he became very sad, because he was a man of great wealth.
Luke 18:22-23
What do we cling to, missing the opportunities for Jesus’ grace?
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Photo by Tierra Mallorca on Unsplash