Let’s look at Jesus’ familiar conversation with the rich young ruler. This man came to Jesus sincerely seeking eternal life. He’d lived a morally respectable life and seemed to have everything going for him. But when Jesus challenged him to sell his possessions and follow him, he walked away sorrowful.
One of the most striking details in the story is Mark’s statement that Jesus looked at the man and loved him. Jesus knew what was keeping this man from fully following him, and because he loved him, he confronted him about it.
We’ll think about the things we sometimes hold on to so tightly that they interfere with our willingness to follow Jesus. We’ll also consider Jesus’ remarkable statement in verse 27: “With man it is impossible, but not with God. For all things are possible with God.” Ultimately, our hope of eternal life rests not in our own goodness or accomplishments but in what God has made possible through Jesus.
Keep these themes in mind, especially Jesus’ love for us and his call to wholehearted discipleship.
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