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Jesus is consistent in asking his disciples for first place in their lives.
Jesus is consistent in asking his disciples for first place in their lives.
January 28, 2016
Matthew 19:22
When the young man heard this, he went away sad, because he had great wealth.
New International Version (NIV)
               Remember the movie Princess Bride?  When the grandfather, played by Peter Falk, reads a part of the story that his grandson doesn’t like, the boy stops him and complains, “Something is wrong.  It shouldn’t be that way.”
                Some parts of the gospel story may strike us in a similar way.  For instance when the rich, young ruler hears that he must give up his wealth to follow Jesus, he walks away sad.  Somehow, we may wish Jesus had chased him down the street and renegotiated.  But Jesus did not.  If we had editorial privilege, we might prevent such stories from being told, or alter them to make them more palatable for our taste. 
                What are we to make of this story?  First, Jesus did not call every disciple to give up all their money to follow him.  So why does he ask this young man?  Money was apparently the very most important thing in this man’s life . . . more important, even, than relationship with God.  Jesus is consistent in asking his disciples for first place in their lives.  No relationship or possession or pastime should ever usurp God’s place in our lives. 
                Remember our verse for this year:  “Seek first the Kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”  If we put God first, he will provide for our needs, if not our wants.  But if we really love something or someone more than God, God cannot help us.  C. S. Lewis said, “Aim at Heaven and you will get Earth ‘thrown in.’  Aim at Earth and you will get neither.”  Treasure God above all else and trust him to take care of the rest.
Pray with me:  
Father, search our hearts today and know us.  See if there is anything in our lives more important to us than you.  If so, we ask that you eradicate whatever it is.  Righteous Ruler of all, take your rightful place on the throne of our lives we pray.  In Jesus’ name.  Amen.  
Scripture reading for today: 
Matthew 19

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