The young man was both rich and moral, but Jesus’ presence and teaching seemed to elicit from him the question that gnawed at his spirit. What should I do to inherit eternal life? Jesus’ answer saddened him because Jesus asked him to give to others the possessions the young man clung to. It was a heart-condition that was unwilling to let go of what was in the way of his fully opening his heart to God in faith, or, as Jesus put it, the man was like a camel trying to squeeze himself through the eye of a sewing needle. The illustration appears absurd until we realize that is what so many of us attempt to do – we want the best that God has for us, but we reach for it while still holding on to an array of "things" that give us comfort or security, or perhaps even, pleasure. In the Old Testament, the relatively young nation of Israel, stood at the very borders of the land God had promised to them. Their security was threatened by the reports of the returning spies, and desperate to protect themselves, they withdrew from the faith that had found God’s provision in the past. They preferred to hold onto the presumed safety of the known rather than risk the unknown with God.

 

Sometimes I wonder what life would be like if I was immersed in the best God has for me. Even as a believer though, God’s best only comes as I fully let go of other "things." For me, material things are relatively easy to let go of. Basically, I appreciate what I have and I really don’t have a desire to accumulate more. The squares on my calendar are harder to let go of. Each square represents a limited period of time and energy. I am not quick to give those away randomly. Harder still are the choices that represent me as a person, the health that is a necessity for the "doer" in me, the relationships that fulfill me, and the ministry opportunities that bring personal satisfaction. And those are the kinds of things that can be in continual change. I have realized though, that like the Israelites, I want to be safe. It can be easy for me to build walls that close myself in, but shut others out. I have torn down a lot of walls over the years, but the tendency is still there, especially if I feel threatened in any way. There is definitely a presumed safety in the known, but the faithfulness of God is always whispering that the risk of going into the unknown with Him, is more than just "worth it."

 

When the nation of Israel was finally ready to be led into the land that God had promised, God spoke to Joshua, their leader. Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.