Reignಮಾದರಿ

Jesus is never cruel. Never. He doesn’t have a cruel bone in His body. Everything He does comes from love. When He healed the sick? Love. When He calmed storms? Love. Even when He rebuked the religious hypocrites—it was always done out of love. Jesus also knows that people are unique. We each have our flaws and blind spots, our own experiences and desires. So, as we read through the Gospels, we’ll see that Jesus spoke different words of love, depending on His audience. To Nicodemus, whose identity was based on being Abraham’s son, Jesus said: “You must be born again” (John 3:7). To the woman at the well who thought she was unseen and forgotten, He offered living water (John 4:10) that would quench her heart forever. And to the rich, young ruler, He said: “Go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me” (Matthew 19:21).

We might think this was a big ask of the rich ruler—a little unreasonable, even. Jesus’ offer of salvation is supposed to be all about grace, right? No works required. But remember: everything Jesus does comes from love. The rich young man loved his wealth, so much so that it was keeping him from truly embracing God. And so, like a skilled surgeon with a scalpel in hand, Jesus cut the man to heal him, directing him to part with something that had a stranglehold on his heart. God loves us too much to leave us clinging to things that are keeping us from a better life. Jesus, please show us if there are things that are holding onto our hearts. Please show us what we need to give up so we experience Your love and the life You want for us more deeply.