Daily Reading: 9-28-16
Matthew 19:16-22 The Message (MSG)
We hold all kinds of things in our minds, hearts, and hands, don’t we? We like stuff. Some stuff we hold onto is good and some stuff not so good. We want to think that which is good will get us rewards in heaven. But in the gospel of Matthew, Jesus tells his disciples they do not enter into heaven because they are good or that they do good. They enter into heaven because God is good and they are willing to do what he asks of them.
16 Another day, a man stopped Jesus and asked, “Teacher, what good thing must I do to get eternal life?”
17 Jesus said, “Why do you question me about what’s good? God is the One who is good. If you want to enter the life of God, just do what he tells you.”
18-19 The man asked, “What in particular?”
Jesus said, “Don’t murder, don’t commit adultery, don’t steal, don’t lie, honor your father and mother, and love your neighbor as you do yourself.”
20 The young man said, “I’ve done all that. What’s left?”
21 “If you want to give it all you’ve got,” Jesus replied, “go sell your possessions; give everything to the poor. All your wealth will then be in heaven. Then come follow me.”
22 That was the last thing the young man expected to hear. And so, crestfallen, he walked away. He was holding on tight to a lot of things, and he couldn’t bear to let go.
Prayer: Lord, I accept that you alone are good. Thank you for providing me an opportunity to enter heaven on your goodness found in Jesus Christ. I am forever grateful for your love; I will hold onto your Word. In Jesus’ name. Amen.