Matthew 19:16-21 [NIV] | 16 Just then a man came up to Jesus and asked, “Teacher, what good thing must I do to get eternal life?” 17 “Why do you ask me about what is good?” Jesus replied. “There is only One who is good. If you want to enter life, keep the commandments.” 18 “Which ones?” he inquired. Jesus replied, “ ‘You shall not murder, you shall not commit adultery, you shall not steal, you shall not give false testimony, 19 honor your father and mother,’ h and ‘love your neighbor as yourself.’” 20 “All these I have kept,” the young man said. “What do I still lack?” 21 Jesus answered, “If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.”
People all around are asking, “What must I do to enter eternal life?” Our society is misled by the world into believing they can do good things for others to gain access into God’s heavenly kingdom. Feelings of uncertainty can fill the mind of a person who is unable to fully accept the forgiveness God freely gives us through death and resurrection of Jesus. We can face times of doubt as Satan temps us into denying the gift of grace and mercy of God. Unfortunately, there are people who live their lives wondering if they have passed some test.
Like the young man in our reading, we need to evaluate ourselves and see what interferes with the relationship we have with God so we can experience his full blessings. We get distracted by the business of life and the collection of material wealth. We can get trapped into seeking the things of the world not putting our complete trust in God. Jesus does not ask us to giveaway our wealth, our material blessings, or taking time to experience God’s creation. He wants to share the importance of letting go of the things that hinder us from being a follower of Christ.
When asked the question, “What do I lack?” We should look at our calendars, check registers, list of possessions, or work schedule and see what is inhibiting a growing relationship with our Lord, Our Savior. Salvation is not based on our good deeds; Jesus has already completed the good work. We can get distracted and lose sight of God’s plan for our lives. God’s first Commandment, “Love the Lord with all you heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.” It is time we make sure God is first in our lives. We can rest in the sure hope that we have already inherited the gift of eternal life.
Prayer:
Lord, help me to remain focused on you and your love for me. Give me strength to let go of the things in life that hinder my relationship with you. May I always put you first. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Action Plan:
Today I will evaluate the things in life that hinder me from growing in my relationship with God.
Pastor Rod Lindemann
I Can’t | Jesus Can | Jesus Can Through Me