Wealth. Mark 10 lets us overhear a conversation Jesus held with a rich young man. It’s not surprising that today, just like then, we have rich people among us whose wealth keeps them from fully following Jesus. What might surprise us is how much those rich people look just like us.

Jesus brings up both rich and poor in this story. Which category do I fall into? More on the rich side than the poor. I am absolutely wealthy in comparison to the rest of the world. If you’re wondering where you stand, check out this website: Global Rich List. Your eyes will open.

But does my wealth keep me from fully following Jesus? I have a feeling that it does. Jesus asked this young man to sell everything he had, give it to the poor, then come follow Him. Could I do such a thing? I really don’t think so, but Jesus has not asked me to do that. Not yet.

Jesus is ever challenging. It amazes me that the words of a Jewish teacher from 2,000 years ago still resonant in our lives. His words still push and bother and compel us today, which is remarkable and wonderful and most of all, hopeful.