January 13

Just then a man came up to Jesus and inquired, “Teacher, what good thing must I do to obtain eternal life?” — Matt 19:16 BSB

This young man had lived a good life. He had a high standing in his church and community. When he came to Jesus, he was eager, and Jesus loved him when He saw him. But his wealth was his idol.

One Sunday morning, a minister found a note on his pulpit saying, “The prayers of this congregation are desired for a man who is growing rich.” There is no time when a person needs the prayers of others more than when they are growing rich. If the rich young ruler had used his wealth as Jesus asked him to, it would have helped the poor, and it would have become treasure stored up for him in heaven. He would have followed Jesus and gained eternal life. The disciples left everything for Jesus, and He promised them: “Everyone who has left houses, brothers, sisters, father, mother, children, or land for My sake will receive a hundred times as much and inherit eternal life.”