Treasure in Heaven

“‘Good Teacher, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?’ ‘…You know the commandments …’ Jesus felt a love for him and said to him, ‘One thing you lack: go and sell all you possess and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me.’” Mark 10:17-22 NASB

This young man seemed sincere, humbly kneeling before Jesus. But he had a question that must have bothered him. “What shall I do to inherit eternal life?”

In spite of his apparent commitment, Jesus said that there was “one thing” he lacked. He needed to “sell all you possess and give to the poor.” It was not enough to know and keep the commandments. To “inherit eternal life” and receive “treasure in heaven” the man had to make a total commitment.

These were words that Jesus spoke out of love. He truly cared about this man, and wanted the best for him. The man might have thought he was sincere. But Jesus knew that his possessions were more important than his relationship with God. “Saddened” by Jesus’ words, the man “went away grieving, for he was one who owned much property.”

How easily we can feel like this young man. Thinking that we are pleasing to God and sincere in our faith. Jesus promises that great riches and unlimited blessings are prepared for all of us. But this requires that we give up everything else, follow Him, and become His disciples.

Earlier Jesus had described how many want to enter through a broad gate. This entrance may seem desirable, for it is easy. But Jesus said that it leads to destruction. Instead, we are to “enter through the narrow gate.” This is the path to life and blessing (Matthew 7:13-14).

Today, remember that Jesus wants the best for you. Make a firm commitment to follow wherever He leads. Go through the narrow gate, denying yourself, taking up your cross and following Him (Mark 8:34).

Prayer: Dear Lord Jesus, I commit my time, talent, and treasure to You. Help me to enter through the “narrow gate.” In Your name. Amen.