May 2, 2012 Bragging or Complaining

Bragging of Complaining? Mark 10:28 Peter said to him, “We have left everything to follow you!” PETER’S words seem to shout off the page. Jesus had told the rich young man to leave everything to follow him. Now Peter is reminding his Lord, “That’s exactly what we did, Jesus. Aren’t we good?” Also you can hear Peter desperately calling to Jesus. Jesus had also just said it was as impossible to enter the Kingdom of God as it would be for a camel to go through the eye of a real needle! Oh no! Peter and Jesus’ disciples are in a faith quandary. “We left everything. Will this save us? Was it worth it to leave our businesses, our possessions, our families, our futures to follow you, Jesus? What’s the point if it’s impossible to enter into the Kingdom?” Either way, the disciples’ attitude is out of faith. If they have been obedient to Jesus, they must humbly honor him as the one who called them to “give up all” and follow him. They must be grateful and joyful that the Lord has called them to his Kingdom. If they are wondering if it’s worth it to follow Jesus, they must consider that they gave up much, but there wasn’t one thing of any value compared to the Kingdom promise. These are good lessons. Do you ever think, “Jesus, look at what I’ve done for you!” Or do you ever wonder, “Jesus, is my sacrifice to you worth it? I’ve given up so much. All the fun I used to have, all the things I used to have, all the ….” Is anything more valuable than truly following God? Gladly leave the temporary, and you will gain the eternal. Pause and consider how you really have no choice.