Questions and Love

Today we’re reading a passage that a lot of Christians have hear many times. But as you look it over, focus on this one thing: What was Jesus’s emotional response to this man and his question? Ask yourself, “How did Jesus FEEL.”

As Jesus started on his way, a man ran up to him and fell on his knees before him. “Good teacher,” he asked, “what must I do to inherit eternal life?”

“Why do you call me good?” Jesus answered. “No one is good—except God alone. You know the commandments: ‘You shall not murder, you shall not commit adultery, you shall not steal, you shall not give false testimony, you shall not defraud, honor your father and mother.”

“Teacher,” he declared, “all these I have kept since I was a boy.

Jesus looked at him and loved him. “One thing you lack,” he said. “Go, sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.” At this the man’s face fell. He went away sad, because he had great wealth.

• Mark 10:17-22

What stood out to you?

The one word that stood out to me (Bill) is the word “love.” I’m not sure I’ve ever focused on that response to the man’s questions. Jesus was not annoyed. Jesus didn’t accuse him of being foolish or doubting or immature. Jesus heard his question and LOVED him.

Now shift to yourself - it’s not a far leap from the passage, although your heart may not be able to make it. How does Jesus feel about you and your questions? Seriously, think about that. What words come to mind? And what if instead you swapped in the word “love” for those words? Try that today.