Into The Breach – Being A Christian ManSample

Day 6 — The guy who had it all

Read: Mark 10:17-31

The various expressions in this account—inheriting “eternal life” (v. 17 NABRE), having “treasure in heaven” (v. 21 NABRE), entering “the kingdom of God” (v. 23 NABRE), and being “saved” (v. 26 NABRE)—are all different ways of expressing the fullness of life that Jesus has come to give to those who choose to receive it. When Jesus asks the man, “Why do you call me good?” (v. 18 NABRE), he is not denying his own goodness; rather he is challenging the man to recognize in Jesus the divine goodness that can satisfy the deep longing of his heart. If the man is able to trust in the infinite goodness of Jesus, he can receive the gift of life that he so urgently seeks.

Unfortunately, the man’s wealth prevents him from accepting God’s gift of salvation. Jesus recognizes that the “one thing” the man lacks is detachment from his “many possessions” (vv. 21-22 NABRE). The rich man thinks that he can earn the grace of eternal life by following all the commandments, so he is unable to humbly receive the gift of God’s kingdom. When Jesus commands him to sell his possessions, give the money to the poor, and then come follow, the wealthy man is unable to dispense with the one thing that obstructs his ability to have treasure in heaven. 

 With an unforgettable hyperbole (v. 25), Jesus tells his disciples that the attractions of wealth and possessions are so alluring that a rich person is unable to sever its grasp. The process of being saved, the transformation that comes through following Jesus, is impossible for human beings to achieve on their own, but “all things are possible for God” (v. 27 NABRE). 

REFLECT: What is the “one thing” I need to leave behind to deepen my commitment to discipleship?  

PRAY: Merciful God, you invite me to detach myself from the lure of worldly securities and material wealth in order to follow your Son, Jesus. Give me the security of your grace and the riches of your kingdom.