by Marilyn Ehle
“Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”. Matthew 6:33
There once lived a young man who had inherited a great fortune and then multiplied it many times over by hard work and wise investments. In addition he was known in the business community for the liberal health benefits package given his employees (at great cost to his profit margin), and above all, his radically generous charitable donations. Both his net worth and his giving were frequently published so his financial situation was open to the world.
Wanting both a good earthly life plus an eventual home in heaven, one day he approached a religious leader inquiring if there was anything else he could do to ensure his desired eternal destination. The answer shocked him into silence. While all his good works certainly enhanced his public image, what the religious leader asked of him made no business sense at all. “There’s one thing left: Go sell whatever you own and give it to the poor. All your wealth will be heavenly wealth. And come follow me.” This would be utter foolishness. It would leave him without resources to expand the business, much less feed his family.
Jesus never asks us to be foolish, but he does demand total commitment. Sometimes dedication to him appears foolish to onlookers since such dedication means “seeking first the Kingdom of God.” What would it cost you to follow Jesus? Are you willing to pay the price?
Lord, it is never easy to take that final step of faith whether it is to trust you to be our personal Savior or to hand over every aspect of our lives to you. But what incredible joy and peace when we begin to learn that our trust is never misplaced when given into your hands. Help me grow in loving and trusting you.
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