February 24

Matthew 19:16-30 (Click to see scripture)

Bible in One Year Passages:

Journal Entry

Scripture

20The young man said to him, "All these I have kept. What do I still lack?" 21Jesus said to him, "If you would be perfect, go, sell what you possess and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me." 22When the young man heard this he went away sorrowful, for he had great possessions.

Observation

It is interesting to note that even though the young man had followed all the commandments asked Jesus: "What do I still lack?". Somehow he knew something was still missing. He followed and kept the commandments that were set forth for him in the Jewish culture and religion, such as: Not committing murder, not committing adultery, not stealing, not bearing false witness, honoring parents, and loving neighbors (like people). These commandments and rules were within his comfort zone and very expected in his, as well as our society. But when Jesus asked the young man to do something out of his comfort zone, something that is out of his normal thought process: Go, sell, give, come and follow, the young man could not. He was willing to give up some things in his life but not everything. He could not trust Jesus and he could not see what he would gain: Having "eternal life", being "perfect" and having "treasure in heaven". His focus was here and now. He worshiped and trusted not God but his wealth

Application

Following Jesus is an active part, go, sell, give, come, follow that requires for me to give my entire heart not just part of it. What am I trusting and worshiping? Can I give it up?

Prayer

Dear Lord, open my eyes today and show me where I put my trust and what I'm worshiping. Show me where you want to go, sell, give, come and follow you today. Give me strength, boldness, faith, and trust in you to give it up freely and with heart of gladness. AMEN.

--Kyung Ho Hong