Transforming Encounters: The 40-Day Challenge (Luke)ნიმუში

A rich and powerful young man approaches Jesus, addressing him as “Good Teacher”, a title reserved for those considered perfect. Jesus does not dispute the title, but asks him why he calls him “Good” when only God is good and perfect. He then answers his question about how to gain eternal life by reminding him to obey the commandments, especially those related to human relationships. Despite this ruler knowing and following the law, Jesus points out that he is still lacking something: Loving God with all his being, which would require him to renounce his attachment to wealth. The young man, distressed and saddened by this challenge, is unwilling to follow Jesus.

This should not be understood as a general command for everyone, but as a direct invitation to the young man, whose personal obstacle to receiving eternal life was his love for money. Jesus teaches that what seems impossible for men is possible for God: grace and salvation. In response, Peter, who had left everything to follow Jesus, asks what they will gain. Jesus replies, assuring them that those who leave everything for him will receive many times more, both in this life and in the life to come. Though the “many times more” can have a literal meaning, this expression clearly refers to the spiritual riches and eternal life that those who follow Jesus receive.

Think about whether there is something in your life that you are not ready to give up, even though you know that it is keeping you away from God. Decide to work on it today.