On Tuesdays, I post a picture to contemplate. I found these vintage needles at a thrift store and had fun arranging them for a photo. As I embark on this 40 day journey, I am reminded that I must release things in order to prepare for the next season of life. I need to let go of stuff. I realize that my expectations will be challenged, and potentially I will be asked to surrender them to a richer, deeper Sovereign will.
In the story of the Rich Young Ruler, we get a glimpse at how difficult it is to let go. After you read his story, I'd like to invite you to go over to Redemption's Beauty to read another story of release that has a happy ending.
And as he was setting out on his journey, a man ran up and knelt before him and asked him, “Good Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?” And Jesus said to him, “Why do you call me good? No one is good except God alone. You know the commandments: ‘Do not murder, Do not commit adultery, Do not steal, Do not bear false witness, Do not defraud, Honor your father and mother.’”
And he said to him, “Teacher, all these I have kept from my youth.” And Jesus, looking at him, loved him, and said to him, “You lack one thing: go, sell all that you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me.” Disheartened by the saying, he went away sorrowful, for he had great possessions.
And Jesus looked around and said to his disciples, “How difficult it will be for those who have wealth to enter the kingdom of God!” And the disciples were amazed at his words. But Jesus said to them again, “Children, how difficult it is to enter the kingdom of God!
It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich person to enter the kingdom of God.”
And they were exceedingly astonished, and said to him, “Then who can be saved?” Jesus looked at them and said, “With man it is impossible, but not with God. For all things are possible with God.”
(Mark 17-27 ESV)
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Kel...oh yes, part of any journey is the need to let go so one may travel unemcumbered. Just ask me! I always pack way too much and then can't carry it--plus, these days, airlines charge for every bag! I think the more we carry in life, we'll realize there is a steep price to pay for it. I'm so glad you are making this journey with Jesus for the next 40 (maybe 80 days--if you do Advent). I pray you will travel lightly and freely! Thank you so much for steering readers over to Shelly's blog today, and for your very gracious words to me there. I so appreciate you! Love, Lynni
ReplyDeleteLynn- It is a great joy to share stories of redemption like yours...btw...love the pic of your and Sheridan...you both look so full of life!
ReplyDeleteEnjoyed this.
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