Pause

There is such a thing, you know, as having too much: too much money, too much power, too many possessions, even too much time – if we become bored with it.

It's hard to know, sometimes, when it becomes too much. A good clue is that we lose sight of when and where the reign of God is revealed.

In these next moments, ask God to clarify your view, clear out whatever clouds your vision, and help you to see where God is at work.

Listen

As he was setting out on a journey, a man ran up and knelt before him, and asked him, "Good Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?" Jesus said to him, “Why do you call me good? No one is good but God alone."

Mark 10:17-18

Think

Jesus is trying to get out of town. He’s just beginning his journey, when here comes Mr. Big Shot. Well-meaning for sure, this man sprints in front of Jesus, kneels down in his path, and asks a big question.

We’re asking the same one.

“What must I do to inherit eternal life?” he inquires. Knowing that you don’t get to the top without stroking an ego every now and then, he’s careful to lead with a little compliment. “Good Teacher,” he says with a bow of the head, making the first move. Cleverly, Jesus, goes off this man’s pre-determined script with a surprise question that also contained his answer.

“I am more than a good teacher,” Jesus is telling him, telling us. “If you’re going to act like what I’m saying is life-giving and life-changing, listen to all of it. The only reason that any of this matters and has any worth is because I am God.”

Today, what would happen if we listened to Christ’s question to us? What if we realized we too, we’re talking to God? Hopefully, we wouldn’t walk away.

John Woods

Pray

Loving God, who sees me for all I am, show me what I must do to truly follow you, so that I might enjoy your company forever. Amen.

Go

Go now knowing just how much you are blessed.
Find creative ways to risk yourself for the world God loves.
Seek out ways to be extravagant with your gifts,
Making your life useful in God's service.