"Jesus ... said, 'How hard it is for the rich to enter the kingdom of God!' The disciples were amazed at his words."
Mark 10:23-24
What does it mean to be rich? It’s such a significant question that three gospel writers—Matthew, Mark, and Luke—include this encounter with Jesus. The composite picture shows the man was a respected ruler who was rich in possessions, personality, and position. He had it all, did it all, and was religious beside. But somehow that wasn’t enough. He felt lacking and unfulfilled. So he asked, “What must I do to inherit eternal life?”
As a young pastor, I was surprised to discover how many older people asked the same question. When they drew closer to their death, they became uncertain about eternal life. The charms of this world’s wealth and treasure grew unimportant. Lacking peace, they wondered as the rich young ruler did what they must do to inherit eternal life.
Friends, be assured that your amazing riches come not from what you can do, but from what Christ already has done. “O love of God, how rich and pure!/ How measureless and strong! It shall forevermore endure—/ the saints’ and angels’ song” (Frederick M. Lehman, 1917).
As a young pastor, I was surprised to discover how many older people asked the same question. When they drew closer to their death, they became uncertain about eternal life. The charms of this world’s wealth and treasure grew unimportant. Lacking peace, they wondered as the rich young ruler did what they must do to inherit eternal life.
Friends, be assured that your amazing riches come not from what you can do, but from what Christ already has done. “O love of God, how rich and pure!/ How measureless and strong! It shall forevermore endure—/ the saints’ and angels’ song” (Frederick M. Lehman, 1917).
Scripture Focus
Mark 10:17-27
Insight
“My sheep listen to my voice; I know them ... I give them eternal life …no one will snatch them out of my hand.” John 10:27-28
Bible In A Year
- Genesis 41-42
- Psalm 21
- Mark 1