September 27

Not Far From the Kingdom

Jesus looked at him, loved him, and said to him, “There is one thing you lack: Go, sell everything you own and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow Me.” — Mark 10:21 BSB

Jesus loves everyone, but there was something about this young man that especially drew out His affection. Jesus saw in him many admirable qualities—traits that, with God’s grace, could be shaped into even greater beauty and strength. This teaches us some important truths. First, Christ loves those who are not yet His disciples. Some people think He only loves those who love Him back, but Christ’s love reaches out to all. He is deeply interested in every young person, seeing the potential in each life. Yet, while Jesus may see lovable things in someone, those qualities alone are not enough to bring salvation.

Jesus’ response to the young man’s question is enlightening. What is the one thing, beyond all that we can do ourselves, that makes someone a true Christian? Many people ask this question. They say, “I live as well as Christians do. I attend church, I keep the commandments, I’m kind and generous. What more do I need?”

What should we tell them? Should we say, “Sell everything you have and give it to the poor?” That’s what Jesus told this young man, but the essential point wasn’t about giving away possessions. The key was following Christ. The young man’s heart was tied to his wealth, and Jesus was asking him to choose Christ over his riches. So, the answer for anyone who asks is that they must accept Christ as their Savior and Lord. They must surrender everything—wealth, ambitions, even relationships—placing all at Christ’s feet, and make Him their sole treasure.