Did you catch that? A quick reading of the passage might have over-looked this little detail. “Jesus … loved him.” It’s only a few words, but it transforms the whole story. When he told the rich man: “Go, sell what you have and give to the poor … then come, follow me” (Mark 10:21), Jesus wasn’t demanding something of him. He was inviting him to be with him. Even as he demonstrated that the gospel can be a tough message to hear, he was calling the man to him in love.
Later, as Jesus looked around at his disciples, the same love burned in his heart. He longed for them to understand that salvation is impossible without the grace of God. He even went so far as to call them his “children” (Mark 10:24). So again, just as he was telling his disciples that following him isn’t easy, he was also encouraging them warmly, reminding them that “all things are possible for God” (10:27). God would be with them! He is full of grace and ready to help—always willing to encourage and strengthen.
Just as the rich man bowed down at Jesus’ feet, we too should bow in prayer. Why? Because God looks at us with the same heart of love. He will ask us to make changes in our lives so that we can follow him more closely, but his voice isn’t harsh or dictatorial. It’s kind and affectionate. He calls us his children. He is filled with love for us, and delights when we respond to his calling. Jesus knows how hard that call can be at times, but he promises that he will never ask us to go anywhere without him.
In prayer today, picture Jesus looking at you with love in his heart. Listen as he invites you to follow him wherever he goes. He may even point out a specific way to do that. If he does, don’t shrink back! Instead, ask him for the grace to obey. Ask him for an extra dose of divine power. Remember: God is right beside you, and all things are possible for him.
“Lord Jesus, I love you. Help me to be obedient as you call my name today. I believe that nothing is impossible for you!”
Sirach 17:20-24; Psalm 32:1-2,5-7