Day 46: March 13

Matthew 19: 13-30

SCRIPTURE HIGHLIGHTS
OBSERVATIONS
Who gets into the kingdom of heaven? This passage has a contrast between children who are welcomed and blessed by Jesus and a young man who goes away disappointed.

The young man comes across as a bit clueless. He asks, “Which ones?” when Jesus tells him he should keep the commandments, Does he think some are optional? Or that some are more important than others? Does he only want to do the bare minimum to get by? At least he has enough self-awareness to realize that something is missing in his spiritual life. He feels incomplete.

Jesus’ solution for him is to 1: sell what you own, 2: give the money away, and 3: “come follow me.” Sadly, this isn’t an enticing prospect. The young man is a great example of the parable of the seed falling on thorny ground. Poor guy! His wealth has a tighter grip on him than God’s kingdom ever will. He doesn’t want to enter eternal life on these terms.

Why are the disciples “stunned” that it’s nearly impossible for a rich person to enter God’s kingdom? Do they think wealth is a sign of God’s blessing and favor? What is it about wealth that makes it such a powerful stumbling block?

Jesus makes a strong promise to everyone who has “left houses, brothers, sisters, father, mother, children, or farms because of my name.” These are the ones who inherit eternal life. Inherit—interesting word. Not “earn” or “achieve.” You only get an inheritance when a person dies and leaves it to you.

APPLICATION
What is it about children that makes them fit for the kingdom of heaven? Their utter dependency? I can see how this would contrast with the self-sufficiency of the wealthy who can buy just about anything they want whenever they want, including power and influence.

What things are difficult for me to let go of? What is it that I think I can manage better than Jesus can? My bank account? My pile of possessions? My precious loved ones? My time? Do I have my own little world I want to control? Where do I need to trust God with my life and the things he has given to me?

PRAYER
Thank you, Father, for your promise that all things are possible for you! Help me to see where I have blind spots about my life and my possessions. Help me to let go of stuff--of myself--and trust you. Give me the determination and strength to follow you even when it involves painful loss. Thank you for your faithfulness and your promise that you will never let me go.